Posted on Mar 04

Bengals decline to franchise Hendrickson, who bids farewell after five seasons

Posted Mar 4, 2026

The Cincinnati Bengals have decided not to franchise tag defensive end Trey Hendrickson, making him a free agent after five seasons with the team.

Why it matters: This decision marks a significant shift for both Hendrickson and the Bengals' defensive structure moving forward. With his departure, the Bengals face a void on the edge of their defense, an area that had previously been bolstered by Hendrickson's elite pass-rushing ability.

Hendrickson ranks second in the NFL in pressure rate (13.2%) since joining the Bengals in 2021.
He also holds impressive stats with 61 total sacks and 11 forced fumbles during that timeframe.

What’s new: Following the passing of the franchise tag deadline, Hendrickson expressed his gratitude toward the Bengals organization through a heartfelt farewell message, highlighting both his pride in wearing the Bengals logo and the mixed emotions tied to his tenure.

In his statement, Hendrickson reflected on the “great wins and tough losses” experienced over five years with the team.
Bengals director of player personnel, Duke Tobin, acknowledged the difficulty of tagging and trading a player like Hendrickson, noting that complications arise from factors such as health, age, and contract conditions.

Yes, but: While the Bengals may have considered utilizing the franchise tag to potentially obtain draft capital, the financial implications were substantial.

The franchise tag for Hendrickson would have cost the Bengals approximately $30.2 million against the salary cap.
Given the team's overall record of 6-11 last season, reallocating cap space may be essential for a more effective rebuild.

What to watch: As the Bengals venture into free agency without Hendrickson, attention will now turn to how they plan to fill his shoes and reinforce their defensive line.

Expect the Bengals to explore both free-agent acquisitions and perhaps look to the draft to secure a replacement who can match Hendrickson's production.

The bottom line: Hendrickson’s exit signifies not just the end of an era but also a pivotal moment for the Bengals as they reassess their defensive strategies for the future.

After being signed to a four-year, $60 million deal in 2021 and earning All-Pro honors, Hendrickson leaves behind a legacy marked by impactful performances but also injury struggles, having played only seven games last season due to injuries before being placed on injured reserve in December.

Bengals decline to franchise Hendrickson, who bids farewell after five seasons

Alex Parker

Posted Mar 4, 2026

The Cincinnati Bengals have decided not to franchise tag defensive end Trey Hendrickson, making him a free agent after five seasons with the team.

Hendrickson ranks second in the NFL in pressure rate (13.2%) since joining the Bengals in 2021.

He also holds impressive stats with 61 total sacks and 11 forced fumbles during that timeframe.

In his statement, Hendrickson reflected on the “great wins and tough losses” experienced over five years with the team.

Bengals director of player personnel, Duke Tobin, acknowledged the difficulty of tagging and trading a player like Hendrickson, noting that complications arise from factors such as health, age, and contract conditions.

Yes, but: While the Bengals may have considered utilizing the franchise tag to potentially obtain draft capital, the financial implications were substantial.

The franchise tag for Hendrickson would have cost the Bengals approximately $30.2 million against the salary cap.

Given the team's overall record of 6-11 last season, reallocating cap space may be essential for a more effective rebuild.

What to watch: As the Bengals venture into free agency without Hendrickson, attention will now turn to how they plan to fill his shoes and reinforce their defensive line.

Expect the Bengals to explore both free-agent acquisitions and perhaps look to the draft to secure a replacement who can match Hendrickson's production.

The bottom line: Hendrickson’s exit signifies not just the end of an era but also a pivotal moment for the Bengals as they reassess their defensive strategies for the future.

After being signed to a four-year, $60 million deal in 2021 and earning All-Pro honors, Hendrickson leaves behind a legacy marked by impactful performances but also injury struggles, having played only seven games last season due to injuries before being placed on injured reserve in December.