One could debate for a long time whether the Bengals will care at all about what the Steelers do with T.J. Watt or otherwise. The fact Hendrickson was permitted to seek a trade and couldn’t find one, though, continues to hint that the Bengals hold most of the leverage, regardless.

Hendrickson's combined 35 sacks are the most by any NFL player of the last two seasons by a decent margin. But the Bengals have not been willing to meet his asking price.

Hendrickson owns a home in Florida also, so him staying close to the Cincinnati Bengals could be significant. The two sides recently resumed contract talks. Bengals Players Confirm Embarrassing Grades From NFLPA Survey They have some things to improve on,