Joe Burrow Breaks Silence on Trey Hendrickson Signing With Ravens

The Cincinnati Bengals had one of the most active offseasons in the NFL, spending the fourth-most money to this point with a clear focus on revamping a defense that ranked among the league's worst over the past two seasons.

Those moves also came with several notable departures, including star pass rusher Trey Hendrickson, who entered unrestricted free agency.

While it was widely expected the two sides would not reach a new deal, many were still surprised when Hendrickson ultimately signed a long-term contract with the Bengals' AFC North rival, the Baltimore Ravens.

However, according to star quarterback Joe Burrow, the move wasn't all that shocking.

Speaking to the media on Wednesday, Burrow said it was "not very surprising," adding, "I know Trey, I love Trey. I just know how he operates."

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Burrow was drafted first overall in 2020, and Hendrickson joined the Bengals the following year in 2021, meaning the two were teammates for five seasons. During that stretch, Hendrickson made four Pro Bowls after beginning his career with the New Orleans Saints, where he spent his first four years.

Cincinnati, however, will now have the opportunity to face Hendrickson twice a year, with his return to the Queen City set for New Year's Eve in a primetime matchup at 8:15 p.m. EST at Paycor Stadium.

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This story was originally published May 20, 2026 at 10:06 AM.