The Cincinnati Bengals face a pivotal decision with Trey Hendrickson as his contract has expired, making him a free agent unless tagged. The franchise tag for defensive ends hovers around $30 million, offering leverage but tying up significant cap space.

Arguments for tagging and trading him center on securing compensation rather than losing him for nothing. With strained relations—no long-term extension reached last offseason—and Hendrickson's age (turning 32 in 2026), a tag-and-trade could net a mid-round pick (likely 3rd or 4th, per reports). This avoids zero return if he walks, especially amid interest from teams like the Colts or Dolphins. Analysts like James Rapien argue it's the smartest play: tag to control rights, then deal to a suitor willing to sign him long-term, providing draft capital for roster rebuilding.

However, strong counterarguments exist. Hendrickson's 2025 production dipped sharply to just 4 sacks in 7 games (possibly injury-related), down from 17.5 sacks in prior elite seasons. At $30+ million guaranteed if no trade materializes, the Bengals risk massive financial commitment to a declining player, limiting flexibility elsewhere. Tag-and-trade scenarios are tricky—finding a partner isn't guaranteed—and the Bengals historically avoid such drama. Many analysts suggest letting him walk for potential compensatory picks outweighs the hassle.

Overall, the Bengals should not tag and trade Hendrickson. The risks (cap hit without a deal) and his recent form make walking away cleaner, preserving resources for younger talent or other needs in a cap-strapped offseason.

The NFL season is over, the Seahawks are champions, and the Bengals now turn their focus to Super Bowl 61 at SoFi Stadium — the site of their last heartbreak. Could 2026 bring redemption in Los Angeles?

Stone Shields breaks down Paul Dehner Jr.’s “10 things that need to go right” for Cincinnati to get back to the big game, adding his own strong opinions along the way. From a potential Maxx Crosby swing to fixing edge, linebacker, and safety the right way, Stone outlines what the Bengals must prioritize this offseason.

He also dives into a possible Trey Hendrickson tag-and-trade, protecting Joe Burrow, valuing the backup QB spot, and which extensions (Dax Hill, DJ Turner, Chase Brown) should come first.

If the Bengals are serious about contending again, this offseason will define it.

OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING:

Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds

Chatterbox Bearcats: https://chatterboxbearcats.podbean.com/

The Stone Shields Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/west-4th-and-long/id1828384424

Off The Bench: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/off-the-bench-by-chatterbox-sports/id1643010062

The Flyin Lion (FC Cincinnati): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flyin-lion-fc-cincinnati-podcast/id1701368522

513 Golf: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjPJjEFaBD7VUSfdVvGjbr1_CmCepLWpr

Stone Shields breaks down the Super Bowl week buzz surrounding Maxx Crosby and whether the Bengals should make a rare, all-in trade for the Raiders’ star pass rusher. He reacts to comments from Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, explains why Crosby would be an ideal fit in Cincinnati, and evaluates how realistic a deal actually is.

The episode also takes a hard look at the Bengals’ defensive tackle situation, why standing pat would be a mistake, and what realistic options exist through free agency, trades, or a potential DJ Reader reunion as Cincinnati tries to fix a long-standing defensive weakness.

OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING:

Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds

Chatterbox Bearcats: https://chatterboxbearcats.podbean.com/

The Stone Shields Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/west-4th-and-long/id1828384424

Off The Bench: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/off-the-bench-by-chatterbox-sports/id1643010062

The Flyin Lion (FC Cincinnati): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flyin-lion-fc-cincinnati-podcast/id1701368522

513 Golf: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjPJjEFaBD7VUSfdVvGjbr1_CmCepLWpr