sports

Bengals skip franchise tag on star DE ahead of free agency

The Cincinnati Bengals will not apply the franchise tag to standout defensive end Trey Hendrickson, leaving the star player as an unrestricted free agent.

This move follows Hendrickson's injury-shortened 2025 season and comes after reports that the team was unwilling to meet his contract demands.

The four-time Pro Bowler brings 81 career sacks to the open market and will seek a new home in his tenth NFL season.