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Bengals deal with contract issues ahead of training camp

Trey Hendrickson is pushing for an extension as Bengals prepare for camp.

July 21, 2025 at 04:14 PM

Duke Tobin on Trey Hendrickson: He's under contract, we expect him at camp

Trey Hendrickson seeks a new contract as Bengals prepare for training camp.

Bengals face contract struggles with defensive ends ahead of training camp

The Cincinnati Bengals are encountering contract issues with defensive ends as training camp approaches. First-round draft choice Shemar Stewart has not yet signed, while veteran player Trey Hendrickson is asking for a contract extension. Hendrickson missed the team's mandatory minicamp in his effort for a new deal. Duke Tobin, the director of player personnel, addressed the situation, stating that everyone under contract is expected to attend camp. Although Tobin acknowledged Hendrickson's performance warrants a new contract, negotiations have stalled, leaving uncertainty around Hendrickson's attendance when practice starts.

Key Takeaways

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Trey Hendrickson seeks a contract extension due to perceived undervaluation.

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The Bengals drafted Shemar Stewart but he remains unsigned.

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Hendrickson skipped mandatory minicamp amid contract discussions.

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Director of player personnel Duke Tobin insists all under contract should attend camp.

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Negotiations for Hendrickson's deal had stalled but have resumed recently.

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The team's approach to these negotiations may affect roster morale.

"We believe everyone under contract should be here for camp."

This quote from Duke Tobin emphasizes the expectation for players to participate in training camp despite contract disputes.

"Hendrickson has earned a new deal, but that doesn’t mean the two sides will agree on one."

Duke Tobin reflects the complexity of contract negotiations within the team context, indicating that performance alone does not guarantee agreement.

The Bengals' problematic contract negotiations illustrate the complexities teams face in managing player expectations and budget constraints. Hendrickson's absence from minicamp highlights a growing trend where players push for contract adjustments despite being under existing agreements. Tensions often escalate when teams must balance financial realities with player morale and performance. How the Bengals resolve this impasse may impact their roster dynamics and locker room harmony as they head into the season.