CINCINNATI — Trey Hendrickson has been at the top of most NFL free agency player rankings heading into the 2026 cycle, but NFL Media's Gregg Rosenthal doesn't see it that way. He had the Bengals star edge rusher down at No. 6 overall on his list posted Monday.

Last year, Hendrickson sat out most of training camp while trying to secure a new deal from the Bengals. The 31-year-old didn't land a long-term contract, but he did score a $13 million raise for 2025. His contract is now expiring, which means he's headed for free agency -- unless, of course, the Bengals hit him with the franchise tag.

The Cincinnati Bengals disappointed in the 2025 season with a 6-11 record. That led to the team missing the postseason for the third consecutive season. Primarily, their issues occurred on defense as they allowed the third-most points in the NFL.

Downs, 24, is entering the final year of his contract with the Colts. He'd become an instant contributor on a Bengals offense that includes Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. He'd give Cincinnati a more well-rounded offense.

The Detroit Lions signing Trey Hendrickson may actually make sense now. Mike Payton breaks down why the situation has changed. Previously, acquiring Hendrickson would have required a trade and significant draft capital,

Who is the better fit for the Bears: Maxx Crosby or Trey Hendrickson? Ted Nguyen with The Athletic weighs in.

This offseason, the Cincinnati Bengals have a huge Trey Hendrickson decision to make, and it's abundantly clear the route they have to go.