Bengals Seek Defensive Line Help After Hendrickson's Departure

Cincinnati must find a replacement for the pass-rushing production lost with Trey Hendrickson's exit.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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The Cincinnati Bengals decided not to franchise-tag defensive end Trey Hendrickson, who recorded 17.5 sacks in 2024 before an injury-plagued 2025 season. With Hendrickson leaving, the Bengals must now focus on finding a replacement for his pass-rushing production in the upcoming NFL Draft, where several top defensive line prospects could be available when they pick 10th overall.

Why it matters

Hendrickson was a key part of the Bengals' defense, and his departure leaves a significant hole that the team must address. The Bengals have the opportunity to find an impact player in the draft, but must make the right selection to maintain a strong defensive front.

The details

While Hendrickson had a down year in 2025 due to injury, his 17.5 sacks in 2024 showed his immense value. The Bengals now need to find a way to replace that level of production, with several top defensive line prospects potentially available when they pick 10th overall. Edge rushers like David Bailey, Ruben Bain Jr., Akheem Mesidor, and Keldric Faulk could all be options for Cincinnati.

  • The Bengals announced they would not franchise-tag Trey Hendrickson in March 2026.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 2026.

The players

Trey Hendrickson

A former defensive end for the Cincinnati Bengals who recorded 17.5 sacks in 2024 before an injury-plagued 2025 season.

David Bailey

An edge rusher prospect out of Texas Tech who is predicted to be a top-5 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Ruben Bain Jr.

An edge rusher prospect out of Miami who turned heads with his performance in the College Football Playoff.

Akheem Mesidor

An edge rusher prospect out of Miami who recorded 12.5 sacks and 4 forced fumbles in his last college season.

Keldric Faulk

An edge rusher prospect out of Auburn with an NFL-ready 6-6 frame, recording 7 sacks in 2024 and 2 in 2025.

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What’s next

The Bengals will have their pick of several top defensive line prospects when they select 10th overall in the 2026 NFL Draft, as they look to replace the pass-rushing production lost with Trey Hendrickson's departure.

The takeaway

The Bengals face a significant challenge in replacing Trey Hendrickson's impact on their defense, but they have the opportunity to find an impact player in the 2026 NFL Draft. Their selection at 10th overall will be crucial in maintaining a strong defensive front.