Trey Hendrickson ends his holdout, returning to the Bengals in July 2025. The NFL's sack leader's return boosts a defense that also adds rookie Shemar Stewart.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
Just when the anxiety was starting to build, Cincinnati let out a collective sigh of relief. All-Pro defensive end Trey Hendrickson is ending his holdout and will report to the team on Wednesday, a massive development that immediately changes the complexion of the Bengals' training camp and their 2025 season outlook.
17.5 sacks. That's the number that led the NFL last season, and that's the number that's officially on its way back to Cincinnati's defensive line.
After five days away and $250,000 in fines, the team's most dominant defensive player is back in the building. While Hendrickson is seeking a new long-term deal with more guaranteed money, his return signals a major thaw in negotiations. Owner Mike Brown expressed optimism that a deal will get done soon, though Hendrickson isn't expected to hit the practice field until the ink is dry. His presence alone is a boon for a defense that desperately needs him. After finishing a disappointing 25th in total defense last year, the pressure is on new coordinator Al Golden to turn things around, and having the league's reigning sack leader is the best possible tool for the job.
As if Hendrickson's return wasn't enough good news for the D-line, the future has also officially arrived. First-round pick Shemar Stewart finally put pen to paper on his rookie contract Saturday, ending a minor holdout of his own. With Stewart now signed and set to join camp, the Bengals suddenly have a fearsome pass-rushing duo to build around. The combination of Hendrickson's proven dominance and Stewart's high-ceiling potential gives Cincinnati a one-two punch that should have opposing quarterbacks nervous all season.
This defensive overhaul is critical for a team with championship aspirations. We know Joe Burrow and the offense can score, putting up an average of 27 points per game last season on their way to a 10-7 record. Burrow was surgical, completing over 69% of his passes for 36 touchdowns. But the defense often struggled to hold up its end of the bargain, allowing over 22 points per game. With a turnover differential of zero, the Bengals broke even but didn't create enough game-changing plays. The return of Hendrickson and the arrival of Stewart are aimed squarely at fixing that problem.
With the contract drama seemingly nearing a resolution and the defensive line suddenly looking formidable, the Bengals' training camp just got a massive jolt of energy. The next steps are clear: get Hendrickson's extension signed, integrate Stewart into the rotation, and see if new coordinator Al Golden can mold this talent into a top-tier unit. For the first time this preseason, the path to an AFC North title looks a little clearer.
