The Cincinnati Bengals have been walking a fine line between hope and concern since Trey Hendrickson went down with a back injury during the Week 6 matchup against the Green Bay Packers. The All-Pro edge rusher, who has been the engine of Cincinnati’s pass rush, exited early and didn’t return. It was a blow that instantly changed the tone of the Bengals’ defense.
In his absence, the team has struggled to replicate his relentless pressure, managing just two sacks over the next two games. Hendrickson missed TNF’s battle against the Steelers, and his availability for the upcoming showdown with the New York Jets has been the biggest question hovering over Paycor Stadium.
Trey Hendrickson Injury Update: Zac Taylor Revealed The Pass Rusher is Optimistic
Now, there’s finally a sign of light for Bengals fans. Head coach Zac Taylor revealed that Hendrickson was “pushing to play” last night despite still recovering, adding that he feels “reasonably optimistic” the defensive star could make his return against the Jets, per NFL reporter Paul Dehner Jr. That cautious optimism hints at progress. And potentially, a much-needed boost for a Bengals defense that thrives when Hendrickson is on the field.
Hendrickson’s determination to get back reflects his reputation as one of the NFL’s toughest competitors. Before his injury, he ranked among league leaders in sacks and quarterback pressures, serving as the heartbeat of Lou Anarumo’s defensive front. Taylor’s comments don’t guarantee his return, but they send one clear message. Trey Hendrickson isn’t far from suiting up again. And with this update, Zac Taylor has smoothly crushed all the rumors swirling around Hendrickson.
Zac Taylor Silences Trey Hendrickson Trade Rumors with Clear Message
Trey Hendrickson’s name has been swirling in trade talks for weeks, quickly becoming one of the NFL’s biggest midseason stories. Speculation intensified after his back injury forced him to miss time, with reports connecting several teams. It includes the San Francisco 49ers, Indianapolis Colts, Philadelphia Eagles, and Dallas Cowboys. According to Cincy Jungle, the 49ers appear most interested after losing Nick Bosa to a season-ending injury. Meanwhile, Pro Football Rumors listed Hendrickson among the top defensive players drawing attention ahead of the trade deadline.
Despite all the buzz, the Bengals have shown no sign of wanting to trade their defensive leader. Reuters reported that Hendrickson’s one-year, $30 million contract gives Cincinnati both financial flexibility and leverage, and the team seems set on keeping him unless a major offer comes in.
His recent injury adds another layer of hesitation for potential buyers, as taking him on means accepting some medical and salary risk. The Bengals understand his value. And without him, Taylor’s defense has struggled to create consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
Earlier this year, there was some tension when Hendrickson publicly expressed frustration about limited communication with the front office, and the Bengals reportedly allowed him to explore potential trades in the offseason. But now, as Cincinnati tries to stay alive in the AFC playoff race, Zac Taylor’s latest comments make the team’s stance clear. He believes Hendrickson is recovering well and expects him back soon, a statement that effectively shuts down any remaining trade talk.