All-Pro Patriots Free Agent Target Sends Strong Message On Social Media

All-Pro Patriots Free Agent Target Sends Strong Message On Social Media originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The first big domino fell in the world of NFL free agency on Tuesday afternoon when the franchise tag deadline struck at 4 p.m. ET. One player who was not tagged by his team was Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson, which could spell good news for the New England Patriots.

After quabbling over his contract with the Bengals for the past few years, Hendrickson endured an injury-plagued campaign in 2025. The two sides have always seemed destined to part ways this offseason, and after Cincy opted not to place the franchise tag on him, Hendrickson issued a goodbye message to the Bengals and their fans.

"Thank you for the opportunity to play the game I love at the highest level," Hendrickson said as part of his post on Instagram. "The last 5 years have been filled with Great wins & Tough losses. Personal achievements and humbling adversities. I was & always will be proud to have worn the Cincinnati Bengals logo & honor the history behind it."

Hendrickson had just 16 tackles and four sacks in seven games last season, but he racked up 17.5 sacks in both the 2023 and 2024 campaigns, which helped him emerge as one of the top pass rushers in the league. New England needs help along its defensive line, making Hendrickson an obvious fit for the team.

There are some red flags surrounding Hendrickson, as his injury issues are worrying, and he is set to enter his age-32 season in 2026. However, at his best, he's one of the best players in his position in the NFL, and now that he's set to depart the Bengals, the Pats would be wise to at least check in on him once free agency opens up next week.

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