Joe Burrow (Photo via Getty Images)
The Cincinnati Bengals’ offseason plans are not unfolding the way Joe Burrow had hoped. The franchise quarterback has made it clear he wants the team to retain Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Trey Hendrickson. However, that goal is slipping away, with Hendrickson now exploring trade options. This has sparked concern from former NFL general manager Mike Tannenbaum, who believes Cincinnati is treading into dangerous territory.

Speaking on ESPN, Tannenbaum expressed serious worries about Joe Burrow’s long-term satisfaction.

“If I’m Cincinnati, I’m significantly worried about Joe Burrow,” Tannenbaum said. “He sat down with ESPN and Laura Rutledge at the Super Bowl and talked in great detail about player salaries, cap numbers, and cash flow. And now, the Bengals are tagging Tee Higgins again while allowing Trey Hendrickson to seek a trade. Those types of players should never leave your building.”

Hendrickson’s Uncertain Future Raises Questions On Joe Burrow

Trey Hendrickson of the Cincinnati Bengals (Image Credit: Getty Images)
Despite being one of the NFL’s most dominant defenders in 2024, Cincinnati has allowed top pass rusher Trey Hendrickson to explore trade options. He finished the season with 17.5 sacks, 46 tackles, two forced fumbles, and six passes defended. With 35 sacks over the past two seasons, his potential departure would leave a major hole in the Bengals’ defense.

While Joe Burrow remains locked into his lucrative contract extension, his influence over roster decisions appears limited. Tannenbaum believes the situation could lead to frustration down the line, especially as Burrow watches other elite quarterbacks receive strong roster support. “Tee Higgins needs to get paid,” Tannenbaum emphasized.

The Bengals now face tough decisions. If Cincinnati trades Trey Hendrickson, they must sign a high-level replacement through free agency or draft one. Teams like the Washington Commanders, who need a pass rusher, could be potential landing spots.

One thing is clear- Cincinnati’s handling of this offseason will have long-term consequences, and keeping their franchise quarterback content should be a top priority.