Trey Hendrickson reports to Bengals camp (July 2025) but won't practice. Will the 2024 sack leader get a new deal before the season starts? Get the latest.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The sight Bengals fans have been waiting for finally arrived Thursday: Trey Hendrickson, the reigning NFL sack king, was back at training camp. But hold the celebratory Who Dey chants for just a moment. While Hendrickson has ended his holdout, he made it clear he won't be strapping on the pads until a new contract is in place, creating a tense but hopeful atmosphere as the team navigates a pivotal preseason.
17.5: The league-leading sack total from Trey Hendrickson in 2024, a number that hangs over every discussion at Bengals training camp.
After weeks of speculation, the Bengals' defensive cornerstone is back in the building. Trey Hendrickson reported to camp Wednesday and was present for Thursday's activities, but only as an observer. The four-time Pro Bowler, fresh off a dominant 17.5-sack season, is staging a 'hold-in,' participating in meetings and mentoring younger players but abstaining from practice. It's a delicate dance: Hendrickson shows his commitment to the team while his agents negotiate an extension. Team president Mike Brown expressed public optimism about getting a deal done, a crucial step for a defense that relies heavily on Hendrickson's pressure. For now, his presence is a massive morale boost, even if it's from the sidelines.
While one star's future is being negotiated, another chapter closed. The Bengals officially moved on from veteran running back Zack Moss, releasing him Wednesday. The move solidifies the changing of the guard that began last season. After Moss suffered a season-ending neck injury in 2024, Chase Brown exploded onto the scene, racking up an incredible 1,350 yards from scrimmage and 11 touchdowns. The decision to release Moss is a massive vote of confidence in Brown as the undisputed lead back. The backfield now clearly belongs to the explosive second-year player.
The Bengals also received a double dose of good news on the rookie front. Center Seth McLaughlin, a key piece for the future of the offensive line, passed his physical and was cleared to practice after a brief stint on the non-football injury list. His integration into drills with Joe Burrow is a development fans will watch closely. Additionally, the team locked up its entire draft class by signing defensive end Shemar Stewart, ending his short contract dispute. With both rookies now officially in the fold, the team's depth on both sides of the ball gets a welcome boost.
It was a day of calculated risks and forward-looking moves in Cincinnati. With Hendrickson present but not participating, the clock is ticking to secure the team's most disruptive defensive player for the long term. Meanwhile, the offense is fully embracing the Chase Brown era, and the next generation of talent is officially on the field. The pieces are moving, the roster is taking shape, and all eyes are on the front office to get that final, crucial signature from No. 91.
