Joe Burrow gets 100% real on being distracted by Trey Hendrickson's absence amid DE's contract standoff

Joe Burrow and Trey Hendrickson were two of the Cincinnati Bengals' best performers in the 2024 season. Burrow was the league's passing yards and touchdowns leader while Hendrickson paced the team in sacks.

However, both players enter the 2025 season with vastly contrasting contractual situations. Joe Burrow signed a five-year, $275 million deal in 2023, while Hendrickson is in the middle of a standoff requesting a more befitting deal.

With mandatory minicamp ongoing, Joe Burrow is keeping it 100% real regarding getting distracted by Trey Hendrickson's absence due to his contractual standoff.

He said,

"Last year we had two (distractions). This year we have one. That's definitely less."

He added:

"You'd love to have none but, you know, that's life in the NFL. We're all supporting Trey, and would love for him to be back."

It's been a busy offseason for the Bengals front office as the team handed bumper deals to wide receivers Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. However, Trey Hendrickson's contractual impasse hangs over the franchise like a dark cloud.

Trey Hendrickson is arguably the team's best defender and a key reason for it being competitive at that side of the ball. Plus, he's a very popular figure among the players.

What's next for Joe Burrow and Trey Hendrickson?

Joe Burrow is participating in mandatory minicamp to get acquainted with the rookies and free agent additions on the roster. The reigning Comeback Player of the Year is looking to lead the Bengals back to the playoffs, and reclaim their spot as one of the most dangerous teams in the AFC.

Trey Hendrickson did not report to minicamp as he negotiates a new deal with the Bengals. The All-Pro defensive end has been with the Bengals since 2021, and he's seeking a deal that'll put him on par with the best players at his position in the league.

Bengals players and fans will hope that the team and Hendrickson can reach a fair compromise before the start of the regular season. The Bengals need all the help they can muster on defense if they're to make the playoffs in the stacked AFC. Their opening game in the 2025 campaign is against the Cleveland Browns.