Trey Hendrickson

Trey Hendrickson has steadily built a reputation as one of the NFL's premier pass rushers. Known for his relentless motor, quick hands, and ability to disrupt opposing quarterbacks, Hendrickson has become an integral force in his team's defensive line, showing that hard work and perseverance can lead to success in the competitive world of professional football.

Early Life and College Career

Trey Hendrickson was born on April 6, 1994, in Crestview, Florida. Growing up, Hendrickson was always involved in sports, particularly football, where his natural athleticism began to shine. His high school years at Crestview High School provided him with the foundation to pursue a career in the sport. Hendrickson’s talent and dedication to improving his skills didn’t go unnoticed, and he earned a scholarship to play college football at Florida Atlantic University (FAU).

At FAU, Hendrickson became a standout player on the Owls’ defensive line. Over his four years at FAU, he displayed an exceptional ability to get after the quarterback. His stats were impressive, as he set school records with 29 career sacks and 45 tackles for loss. His relentless pursuit of the quarterback, combined with his physicality and speed, helped elevate his profile as one of the top defensive players in college football. Hendrickson’s success at FAU earned him an invitation to the 2017 Senior Bowl, where he further demonstrated his skill set and caught the attention of NFL scouts.

NFL Career: A Breakout Performance

Hendrickson's journey to the NFL began when the New Orleans Saints selected him in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft with the 103rd overall pick. His early years in the league were a mixture of learning and adjusting to the professional game. In his first few seasons, Hendrickson played a rotational role on the Saints' defensive line. However, he was able to show flashes of his potential as a pass rusher, earning limited but valuable experience alongside some of the league's best defensive players.

Hendrickson’s breakout moment came in 2020 when he finally earned a starting role with the Saints. That season, he exploded onto the scene, recording a career-high 13.5 sacks, which ranked among the best in the NFL. His performance was a testament to his relentless work ethic and his ability to consistently pressure the quarterback. Hendrickson’s 2020 campaign earned him widespread recognition and proved that he had the potential to be one of the top pass rushers in the league.

The Move to Cincinnati

In 2021, Hendrickson signed a four-year contract with the Cincinnati Bengals, continuing his ascent into stardom. His move to the Bengals marked a new chapter in his career, as he was tasked with leading the pass rush for a team that was in the midst of building a championship contender. In his first season with the Bengals, Hendrickson proved that his success with the Saints was no fluke. He recorded 14 sacks, once again ranking among the league leaders in that category.

Hendrickson’s presence on the defensive line was a key factor in the Bengals’ success in 2021, as they made it all the way to Super Bowl LVI. While the Bengals ultimately fell short of securing the title, Hendrickson's contribution to the team’s defensive unit was invaluable, and his ability to disrupt opposing offenses helped set the tone throughout the season.

Playing Style and Strengths

Trey Hendrickson’s success as a pass rusher can be attributed to several key attributes. His quickness off the line of scrimmage is exceptional, and his burst of speed allows him to create immediate pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Hendrickson’s hands are also one of his biggest assets. He uses a variety of techniques to shed blockers, including a powerful swim move and the ability to work through offensive linemen with precision and speed.

Additionally, Hendrickson is known for his high motor. He never takes a play off, consistently hustling and maintaining pressure on the quarterback throughout the game. This relentless approach makes him a difficult player for offensive linemen to deal with, as they never know when he might break free and make a game-changing play.

Hendrickson also has a reputation for being a versatile defender. While he is primarily known for his pass-rushing ability, he is also capable of being effective against the run, using his strength and awareness to set the edge and contribute to a well-rounded defensive game plan.

Future Outlook

At just 30 years old (as of 2025), Hendrickson’s future in the NFL looks bright. As a leader on the Bengals' defense, he remains a crucial component of the team’s plans to contend for championships in the coming years. His consistency and ability to produce year in and year out will make him a player to watch as the Bengals continue to develop their roster and aim for a Super Bowl title.

Trey Hendrickson’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance. From a standout college career at FAU to a breakout season with the Saints, and now to becoming a cornerstone of the Bengals' defense, Hendrickson has proved that hard work and dedication can lead to success in the NFL. As his career progresses, there’s little doubt that he will continue to be a dominant force in the league for years to come.

Conclusion

Trey Hendrickson is a player who has worked tirelessly to get to where he is today. His story is one of determination, growth, and the pursuit of excellence. As he continues to make an impact on the field, Hendrickson is sure to be remembered as one of the NFL’s top pass rushers of his era. Whether it’s with the Bengals or beyond, Hendrickson's legacy is still being written, and fans of the game can expect to see more from him for years to come.