Rashan Gary, Packers
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Outside linebacker Rashan Gary of the Green Bay Packers reacts after a sack during a game against the New Orleans Saints at Lambeau Field on September 24, 2023 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
The Cincinnati Bengals are at a crossroads with star edge rusher Trey Hendrickson.
They haven’t been able to come to a long-term deal recently, and he is set to hit the open market. Hendrickson has been one of the lone bright spots on a terrible Bengals’ defense.
While Hendrickson holds leverage for that reason, Cincinnati has leverage of their own. Hendrickson kissed 10 games in 2025, something the Bengals can use to their advantage in negotiations.
Still, there is likely a team out there that will pay the asking price. Trey Hendrickson had only missed 2 games in 4 seasons in the years leading up to 2025.
If he is to walk, a potential suitor for his replacement has been named.
Bengals Could Look to Sign Rashan Gary if Released by Green Bay
GettyGREEN BAY, WISCONSIN – OCTOBER 12: Joe Flacco #16 of the Cincinnati Bengals is hit by Rashan Gary #52 of the Green Bay Packers during the second quarter in the game at Lambeau Field on October 12, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images)
Sports Illustrated orchestrated this hypothetical.
“Packers defensive end Rashan Gary could be a perfect target in free agency following Hendrickson’s inevitable departure.
Gary, 28, isn’t expected to return to Green Bay in 2026. He’s currently under contract, but he has a cap hit of nearly $28 million. The Packers could save over $11 million in cap space by moving on from the veteran.”
If Gary is to hit free agency, he has a connection in Cincinnati already that could drive the deal home, per James Rapien.
“Cincinnati desperately needs to bring in a proven pass rusher. Current Bengals defensive line coach Jerry Montgomery was in Green Bay with Gary for five seasons (2019-23). Montgomery helped draft Gary with the 12th selection in the 2019 NFL Draft. He also helped him develop into a productive pass rusher.
Gary played his best ball when Montgomery was in Green Bay, compiling 24.5 sacks in a three-year span from 2021-23.
Montgomery’s relationship with Gary could help if they do target him in free agency. He is the exact player that the Bengals have had success targeting. From his first round pedigree, his production and his familiarity with Montgomery—this fit makes too much sense.”
PFF Reveals Cinci’s Most Important Roster Decision in 2026 Offseason
Trey Hendrickson
GettyMINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA – SEPTEMBER 21: Trey Hendrickson #91 of the Cincinnati Bengals looks on before the game against the Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium on September 21, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by David Berding/Getty Images)
Understandably, Pro Football Focus named the handling of edge rusher Trey Hendrickson as their most important roster decision.
“No, it isn’t Groundhog Day. The Bengals face another offseason whether uncertainty shrouds Trey Hendrickson’s contract, with multiple permutations for how the situation can play out.
After months of trade requests and rumors, Hendrickson signed a retooled one-year deal before 2025. When back on the field with Cincinnati, the All-Pro was dynamic with 23 pressures and a 90.0 PFF pass-rushing grade, but he played in only seven games due to a hip injury.
While the Bengals hold some leverage in contract talks because of the Hendrickson injury in 2025, they still may be on the outside looking in to get him locked up. Hendrickson has leverage because he has basically been the lone bright spot on a terrible Bengals defense.
PFF continued their explanation regarding the Hendrickson situation in 2026.
“With Hendrickson set to be an unrestricted free agent yet again, the Bengals could franchise tag him or keep the star on a short-term deal. Even if Hendrickson is franchise-tagged, though, Cincinnati could try to trade him. Alternatively, letting Hendrickson walk and sign elsewhere is entirely on the table, especially after multiple seasons of contract stalemates.”