Hendricks on the Bengals’ sideline, actively involved in the road game and pursuing enhanced compensation, showcases veteran leadership amid a week filled with contract talk. His willingness to travel and support teammates contrasts with McLaurin’s marked absence, highlighting a dynamic around value and longevity in the Bengals’ defense.

Hendrickson’s absence from the Bengals’ first-team defense left the Washington offense with an opportunity to attack; even without the star edge rusher, Cincinnati’s defense showed resilience. For fantasy, the matchup context matters—if Hendrickson’s presence is felt later, it could swing pass protection and rushing lanes in Cincinnati’s favor early in the season.

Rumors around Trey Hendrickson surface as the defense faces uncertainty; such chatter could influence how aggressively the Bengals lean into the pass game. If Hendrickson moves, the defensive pressure balance shifts, potentially increasing offensive opportunities for Burrow and the passing corps in a high-scoring climate.

Hendricksont deal hinges on guaranteed money; ages 30; the Bengals and Hendrickson agree on term and total value, but guarantees lag, shaping both sides’ offseason moves and fantasy implications.

Hendrickson, Cincinnati’s elite pass rusher, posted 17.5 sacks last season and is in a contract stalemate over guaranteed money. The Bengals reportedly would guarantee only one year of the next deal, delaying long-term guarantees as Week 1 approaches. His absence creates short-term risk but long-term fantasy upside should a guaranteed structure land, given his proven sack production and Pro Bowl run.