In Cincinnati, contract disputes tend to linger like bad weather. This summer, it was Trey Hendrickson’s turn. The All-Pro defensive end skipped the first week of training camp while pushing for an extension, only to show up again before things spiraled further. His explanation? Just four words: “Nothing has really changed.”
Technically, he’s right. Hendrickson still doesn’t have a new deal. He will be 31 this season, coming off a league-leading 17.5 sacks, and looking for guaranteed money beyond year one. But for now, he’s back in the building – even if it’s more about positioning than resolution.
Trey Hendrickson says “nothing has really changed” regarding his situation with the Bengals.
He’s here at camp, but still no new deal
— Matt Verderame (@MattVerderame) July 30, 2025
Joe Burrow didn’t dance around the obvious reason for Hendrickson’s return. “Guys don’t want to get fined… it’s 50K a day. That’s not pennies. That’s probably part of it.” Burrow’s point hits hard. Holdouts have started morphing into “hold-ins,” with players showing up to avoid penalties while still sending a message.
Still, the quarterback made it clear Hendrickson’s presence isn’t just about money. “Whenever you can have a guy like that in the building, even if he’s not going, you know, it’s good to see his face, good to have his presence. He’s going to play a big part of this team this year.” So, nothing has really changed. Except, of course, that Hendrickson’s here – and sometimes just being in the room changes everything.
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