Duke Tobin’s Hints at the Bengals’ Future
Duke Tobin, the de facto general manager of the Cincinnati Bengals, had been dropping subtle hints about the team’s future at the NFL scouting combine. His comments about the team’s key players provided a clear indication of where the team was headed. When discussing wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase, Tobin was unequivocal, stating, “He’s going to end up being the No. 1-paid non-QB in the league. We’re there. Let’s get it done.” On Chase’s counterpart, Tee Higgins, whose contract was set to expire, Tobin was equally committed: “Whenever I’m in charge of a football team, I want Tee Higgins – so I’m going to do what I can to get Tee Higgins. Our preference with Tee Higgins is to do a long-term agreement.” However, the tone shifted when it came to edge rusher Trey Hendrickson, who had recorded 17.5 sacks in each of the last two seasons. Tobin’s language was more cautious, using phrases like “hopefully” and “we would like,” and veering into past tense. This subtle change in tone foreshadowed the week’s outcome, when the Bengals granted Hendrickson permission to seek a trade.
The Financial Conundrum
The Bengals’ decision to allow Hendrickson to seek a trade was a financial one. Few league insiders believed the Bengals could extend Chase, Higgins, and Hendrickson all, given the team’s budget constraints. Cincinnati is already paying quarterback Joe Burrow a substantial salary, and the club is not known for lavish spending. Chase’s performance, which included 127 catches, 1,708 receiving yards, and 17 touchdowns, made his extension a no-brainer. The real question was whether the Bengals would keep Higgins or Hendrickson. One NFC executive speculated, “I think they’d probably sign two of those guys and they lose Higgins. Or they could say, ‘Hey, well, we’re just going to go all out on offense and go young on defense and trade Trey for a draft pick or something like that. Because Trey is probably the riskiest of the three, just because he’s the oldest.”
Hendrickson’s Value and Production
Hendrickson’s production is undeniable, with his 17.5 sacks in each of the last two seasons marking him as one of the league’s top pass rushers. However, the Bengals’ defense finished 25th in points allowed and yards allowed last season, raising questions about the overall impact of Hendrickson’s contributions. While he excelled in pass-rushing, ranking sixth in pass-rush grade among edge rushers in 2023, his run defense was significantly less impressive, ranking 156th of 197 edge rushers. This disparity suggests that Hendrickson’s value may be overestimated, especially considering the Bengals’ need for a more versatile defensive front. With the team transitioning to a new defensive coordinator, Al Golden, the Bengals are looking to build a more multiple defensive front. Hendrickson’s production has come largely from one spot, and the team must consider whether his specialization is worth the high cost.
The Trade Possibilities
The Bengals’ decision to grant Hendrickson permission to seek a trade opens a range of possibilities. The team could trade him to another club for a draft pick, or he could be released, depending on the offers received. The decision to allow Hendrickson to seek a trade also signals the Bengals’ commitment to building a more balanced and versatile defense. While losing Hendrickson, the most productive player on the defense, would be a significant loss, the team seems willing to bet that the sum of their parts might be better without him. This move reflects the Bengals’ strategic approach to roster construction, focusing on areas where they can maximize value and impact.
The Broader Impact on the Team
The departure of Trey Hendrickson could have broader implications for the Bengals’ roster and strategy. The team has already used the franchise tag on Tee Higgins, signaling their intention to keep him, but the financial constraints mean they may need to make tough decisions. The Bengals are not alone in facing these challenges, as many teams must balance the need to retain key players with the realities of the salary cap. The Bengals’ approach of prioritizing offensive talent while rebuilding the defense may pay off in the long run, but it also means they will need to find cost-effective solutions to address their defensive weaknesses. The team’s ability to navigate these challenges will be crucial in their quest to return to the playoffs and build a sustainable championship contender.
Looking Forward
The Bengals’ decision to allow Trey Hendrickson to seek a trade is a significant move that reflects their strategic priorities and financial constraints. While it may be a difficult decision, the team seems committed to building a more balanced and versatile defense. The focus on retaining Ja’Marr Chase and potentially Tee Higgins demonstrates the importance of a strong offense in the Bengals’ plans. The coming weeks and months will be crucial as the team navigates the trade market and free agency, looking to find the right pieces to complement their core players. The success of this strategy will determine the Bengals’ future and their ability to compete at the highest level.
