Patriots Listed As Trade Destination For Star Pass Rusher In Contract Dispute

Trey Hendrickson’s future with the Cincinnati Bengals is in question as he has made it clear that he is looking for a long-term contract extension, but the team hasn’t met his demands.

And with that, NFL Network’s Kevin Patra listed the Patriots as a possible trade destination for Hendrickson.

“The Bengals are unlikely to be interested in moving Hendrickson, as that’s not how they roll. However, if there is a divorce, New England is a good new partner,” Patra wrote. “Mike Vrabel could use a legit No. 1 edge to anchor his defense, and the Pats still have cap space. Sure, they’ve shelled out a lot on D already this offseason, but they should continue to take big swings while Drake Maye is still on a rookie deal. Adding Hendrickson would get them a big stride closer to threatening the Bills’ divisional dominance.”

However, it seems things might be looking up for Hendrickson and the Bengals.

ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported on Sunday that the two sides have resumed contract discussions.

Hendrickson did not take part in the team’s offseason workouts, including missing mandatory minicamp, which could cost him $105,000 in fines. He did show up on May 13 to speak with reporters about the ongoing dispute.

“We’ve tried to keep it as least amount as personal as possible, but at some point in this process it’s becomes personal,” Hendrickson told reporters, per ESPN. “Being sent 30 days before mandatory camp, or how many ever days it is, that if I don’t show up I will be fined alludes to the fact that something won’t get done in that time frame.”

“And when there’s a lack of communication in any relationship, if it’s business or personal relationship, lack of communication leads to animosity, and that leaves my narrative only to me with no clear direction,” he added.

Hendrickson is in the final year of his deal and is set to make $16 million despite being the 2024 sack leader with 17.5 sacks. His efforts also earned him first-team All-Pro honors, and he’s been named to the Pro Bowl in every single season since he signed with Cincinnati.