Trey Hendrickson is drawing early attention as the top free agent target for 2026 after another productive season as the Cincinnati Bengals’ primary edge rusher. Evaluators say his blend of pass‑rush moves and consistent pressure production makes him an immediate upgrade for contending defenses.
Hendrickson’s résumé over the past two seasons has been hard to ignore. He posted 17.5 sacks and 65 pressures in 2024 and continues to generate pressure even when overall sack totals fluctuate, helping explain why evaluators ranked him atop ESPN’s early free‑agent list. That sustained disruption is the trait teams covet when they need an impact pass rusher on a new deal.
Cincinnati Bengals, Trey Hendrickson, NFL
Jan 7, 2024; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson (91) reacts after sacking Cleveland Browns quarterback Jeff Driskel (not pictured) in the first half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-USA TODAY Sports
The Bengals face a difficult choice as Hendrickson approaches free agency. Cincinnati could use the franchise tag to retain him through 2026, a costly option projected at roughly $36 million for the position, or attempt a sign‑and‑trade to recoup draft capital. Front‑office sources noted the club might accept the compensatory pick route if it cannot agree to an extension, but losing Hendrickson would create a clear hole opposite the rush interior.
Market expectations have already taken shape. Industry projections suggest Hendrickson could command north of $34 million per year on a multi‑year deal, putting him among the highest‑paid edge defenders in the league. Those figures reflect both his performance profile and the premium teams place on proven rushers who can change a game’s momentum late in downs.
Analysts also point out risk factors that will shape negotiations. Hendrickson will be 31 at the start of the 2026 season, which could push teams toward shorter deals or incentive‑laden structures. Cincinnati will weigh long‑term cap implications against the immediate need to maintain a pass rush that has been a defensive cornerstone.
NFL Analysis Projects Cincinnati Bengals’ Trey Hendrickson To Be the Top Free Agent Next Year
Cincinnati Bengals, Trey Hendrickson, NFL
Oct 20, 2024; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson (17) is tackled by Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson (91) while throwing the ball during the fourth quarter at Huntington Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Scott Galvin-Imagn Images
Hendrickson is seen as the top name when it comes to free agency next year. This can be seen in an analysis by Matt Bowen for ESPN.
Hendrickson is a relentless defender off the edge with a deep toolbox of counters and a knack for making plays late in the down. Hendrickson has four sacks this season, and his 17.5 sacks and 65 pressures in 2024 were both league highs. He would be an immediate upgrade for just about any team.
For contenders with deficient edge play, Hendrickson offers a ready‑made answer. His film shows a diverse toolbox of counters, bend and late‑down motor that translate across schemes and would fit in multiple defensive fronts.
Cincinnati Bengals, Trey Hendrickson, NFL
Dec 15, 2024; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson (91) stands ready for play against the Tennessee Titans during the second half at Nissan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images
The coming months will reveal whether the Bengals can retain their top producer or whether Hendrickson’s stock will send him to the open market and a lucrative payday. Either outcome will have ripple effects that extend beyond Cincinnati’s locker room and into the offseason spending landscape.
Cincinnati Bengals, Trey Hendrickson, NFL
Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson (91) attends a preseason training camp practice in downtown Cincinnati on Thursday, July 31, 2025.
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