By Blessing 
The Detroit Lions will face off against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 5 of the 2025 NFL season, and there’s already a potential twist developing with one of Cincinnati’s biggest stars.
NFL Insider Jeremy Fowler reports that the Bengals have reopened contract extension discussions with standout defensive end Trey Hendrickson. This marks the first real movement in what had been a quiet standoff for some time.
ESPN recently confirmed, “The two sides have resumed communication on his contract and future with the team.” Hendrickson, fresh off a dominant All-Pro campaign where he led the league with 17.5 sacks, is still pushing hard for a long-term deal. “He remains steadfast in his desire for a long-term contract extension,” the report added.
Hendrickson has made his frustration known, opting to skip all offseason training and even missing mandatory minicamp — a decision that could cost him around $105,000 in fines.
At 30 years old, and with the pass-rusher market on the rise, Hendrickson could be aiming for a payday north of $40 million per year. Recent deals for Maxx Crosby and Myles Garrett have significantly raised the bar for elite defensive ends.
Despite the looming contract issues, Bengals head coach Zac Taylor is keeping his focus on the players in the building. “I think anytime you have great players, you want them to be around,” Taylor told reporters. “That’s just a decision he’s got going on right now, and we’ll keep focusing on the guys that are here.”
Meanwhile, in Detroit, the Lions could soon be having their own big contract conversation. Star edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson, the former No. 2 overall pick, may also be due for a long-term extension — especially if Hendrickson’s situation gets resolved.