The Cincinnati Bengals have chosen to retain star defensive end Trey Hendrickson despite speculation linking him to potential trades during the NFL draft. After selecting Shemar Stewart, some insiders believed Hendrickson might be on the move. However, coach Zac Taylor emphasized that the draft pick would not affect Hendrickson's status. The Bengals have a history of holding onto key players, and with Hendrickson’s restructured contract, the team appears to hold all leverage in their ongoing negotiations.

Hendrickson signed a one-year extension in 2023, but has openly expressed a desire for a long-term deal. At age 30, his production remains high, making the front office less inclined to trade him given his performance relative to salary. They granted him permission to seek a trade, but no offers materialized, reinforcing Hendrickson’s position on the roster as the Bengals expect him to fulfill his contract through the start of the season.