BREAKING: All-Pro DE Trey Hendrickson Decommits from Bengals, Flips Commitment to Washington Commanders over Auburn, Georgia

BREAKING: All-Pro DE Trey Hendrickson Decommits from Bengals, Flips Commitment to Washington Commanders over Auburn, Georgia

Washington, D.C. — In a stunning move that has sent shockwaves across the NFL and the wider football world, All-Pro defensive end Trey Hendrickson has decommitted from the Cincinnati Bengals and officially flipped his commitment to the Washington Commanders. The dramatic shift comes amid mounting tensions between Hendrickson and the Bengals’ front office over contract negotiations.

Sources close to the situation confirmed Sunday morning that Hendrickson, 30, will join the Commanders ahead of the 2025 season, spurning overtures from multiple suitors — including college football powerhouses Auburn and the Georgia Bulldogs, who reportedly made competitive NIL-style pitches in an effort to lure Hendrickson into their coaching or player development staffs. Instead, the Florida native will remain in the NFL, suiting up in burgundy and gold.

Contract Dispute Reaches Breaking Point

Hendrickson’s departure comes after months of vocal discontent with his current deal in Cincinnati, where he was due just $15.8 million for the upcoming season — a figure far below market value for a player of his caliber. Hendrickson led the league in sacks last season with 17.5 and was named a First-Team All-Pro for the first time in his career.

The Bengals granted Hendrickson permission to seek a trade in April after he publicly challenged the organization’s unwillingness to restructure his deal. Despite his three consecutive Pro Bowl appearances and elite production, Cincinnati stood firm — prompting Hendrickson’s camp to explore other opportunities.

“It’s about respect and recognition,” a source close to Hendrickson told The Athletic. “He gave everything to that team and wanted to feel valued. That didn’t happen.”

Washington Wins the Bidding War

While several NFL teams reportedly entered the Hendrickson sweepstakes — including the Detroit Lions and Atlanta Falcons — the Washington Commanders emerged as the frontrunner. The team, now under the leadership of head coach Dan Quinn and newly appointed GM Adam Peters, is undergoing a cultural and strategic overhaul.

In a move seen as clearing space for a blockbuster acquisition, the Commanders recently released veteran defensive lineman Jonathan Allen, freeing up nearly $15 million in cap space. That cash was quickly funneled into securing Hendrickson.

According to league insiders, the Commanders have offered Hendrickson a restructured three-year deal worth approximately $72 million — with $45 million guaranteed — vaulting him into the upper echelon of NFL edge rusher salaries.

“We’re Building a Championship Defense” — Commanders GM

Speaking at a surprise press conference Sunday afternoon, GM Adam Peters lauded the acquisition:

> “Trey Hendrickson is the kind of game-changer we’ve been targeting — relentless, explosive, and a proven leader. We’re building a championship defense here in Washington, and Trey is a cornerstone piece in that plan.”

Head coach Dan Quinn echoed the sentiment, pointing to Hendrickson’s fit in Washington’s aggressive 4-3 scheme.

> “He’s going to thrive here. We’re giving him the keys to get after quarterbacks from Day One.”

From Queen City to Capital City

For Hendrickson, the move signals not just a change of scenery but a renewed commitment to championship aspirations. Despite his individual success in Cincinnati, the Bengals’ window appeared to be narrowing, with key departures on both sides of the ball and uncertainty surrounding quarterback Joe Burrow’s long-term health.

Washington, meanwhile, has quietly assembled one of the league’s most intriguing young rosters, led by defensive studs like Jamin Davis and Emmanuel Forbes, as well as promising QB Jayden Daniels, who was taken No. 2 overall in April’s draft.

With Hendrickson now anchoring the defensive front, the Commanders are expected to make a serious push for playoff contention in the NFC East — a division historically dominated by the likes of Dallas and Philadelphia.

What’s Next for Cincinnati?

The Bengals, who will reportedly receive a second-round pick and conditional fourth-rounder in return for Hendrickson, now face a pressing need on the edge. Young DE Myles Murphy is expected to take on a larger role in 2025, while the team may look to the trade market or free agency to fill the void.

Cincinnati’s decision to part ways with Hendrickson could mark the beginning of a larger rebuild — a far cry from their Super Bowl appearance just three seasons ago.