Tee Higgins and Trey Hendrickson of the Cincinnati Bengals have communicated their desire to be traded, putting pressure on the team to negotiate swiftly. Although the Bengals aim to keep both players for the upcoming season, Higgins and Hendrickson are looking for long-term security through new contracts, a demand that the team appears hesitant to meet.

The Bengals hope to secure both players, but they understand the necessity of providing significant extensions to quarterback Joe Burrow and wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase in the near future. This situation may lead to the Bengals parting ways with both Higgins and Hendrickson. While a potential agreement could still be reached post the NFL Draft, the likelihood decreases, as Cincinnati would require draft compensation to replace these two key starters.

While the Bengals might have anticipated the departure of starting wide receiver Higgins, given the presence of Chase, the potential loss of Hendrickson could pose a considerable challenge. Hendrickson, a standout pass-rusher, has excelled this season with 17.5 sacks, establishing himself as a key defensive asset for the team. Since his move from the New Orleans Saints in the 2021 offseason, Hendrickson has accumulated an impressive total of 40 sacks over the last three seasons, showcasing his disruptive impact on the Bengals’ defensive line.

Trey Hendrickson might depart from the Bengals in the near future.

He is in the final year of his contract and is looking to extend his stay with the team. However, as Cincinnati needs to prioritize funds for their quarterback and receiver, the pass-rusher may warrant a day two draft pick if an agreement is reached.On the other hand, Higgins could fetch the Bengals a first-round pick if they opt to trade him.

Despite being a secondary option for the past three years, the talented receiver has managed to score 24 touchdowns in his first four seasons.Teams such as the Jacksonville Jaguars, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Indianapolis Colts are reportedly seeking a receiver, with rumored interest in San Francisco 49ers’ Brandon Aiyuk, potentially shifting their attention to Higgins.The draft’s first round commences at 8pm ET on Thursday, with anticipated deals unfolding throughout the evening.