The Cincinnati Bengals face a pivotal decision with Trey Hendrickson as his contract has expired, making him a free agent unless tagged. The franchise tag for defensive ends hovers around $30 million, offering leverage but tying up significant cap space.

Arguments for tagging and trading him center on securing compensation rather than losing him for nothing. With strained relations—no long-term extension reached last offseason—and Hendrickson's age (turning 32 in 2026), a tag-and-trade could net a mid-round pick (likely 3rd or 4th, per reports). This avoids zero return if he walks, especially amid interest from teams like the Colts or Dolphins. Analysts like James Rapien argue it's the smartest play: tag to control rights, then deal to a suitor willing to sign him long-term, providing draft capital for roster rebuilding.

However, strong counterarguments exist. Hendrickson's 2025 production dipped sharply to just 4 sacks in 7 games (possibly injury-related), down from 17.5 sacks in prior elite seasons. At $30+ million guaranteed if no trade materializes, the Bengals risk massive financial commitment to a declining player, limiting flexibility elsewhere. Tag-and-trade scenarios are tricky—finding a partner isn't guaranteed—and the Bengals historically avoid such drama. Many analysts suggest letting him walk for potential compensatory picks outweighs the hassle.

Overall, the Bengals should not tag and trade Hendrickson. The risks (cap hit without a deal) and his recent form make walking away cleaner, preserving resources for younger talent or other needs in a cap-strapped offseason.

The NFL season is over, the Seahawks are champions, and the Bengals now turn their focus to Super Bowl 61 at SoFi Stadium — the site of their last heartbreak. Could 2026 bring redemption in Los Angeles?

Stone Shields breaks down Paul Dehner Jr.’s “10 things that need to go right” for Cincinnati to get back to the big game, adding his own strong opinions along the way. From a potential Maxx Crosby swing to fixing edge, linebacker, and safety the right way, Stone outlines what the Bengals must prioritize this offseason.

He also dives into a possible Trey Hendrickson tag-and-trade, protecting Joe Burrow, valuing the backup QB spot, and which extensions (Dax Hill, DJ Turner, Chase Brown) should come first.

If the Bengals are serious about contending again, this offseason will define it.

OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING:

Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds

Chatterbox Bearcats: https://chatterboxbearcats.podbean.com/

The Stone Shields Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/west-4th-and-long/id1828384424

Off The Bench: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/off-the-bench-by-chatterbox-sports/id1643010062

The Flyin Lion (FC Cincinnati): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flyin-lion-fc-cincinnati-podcast/id1701368522

513 Golf: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjPJjEFaBD7VUSfdVvGjbr1_CmCepLWpr

Stone Shields breaks down the Super Bowl week buzz surrounding Maxx Crosby and whether the Bengals should make a rare, all-in trade for the Raiders’ star pass rusher. He reacts to comments from Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, explains why Crosby would be an ideal fit in Cincinnati, and evaluates how realistic a deal actually is.

The episode also takes a hard look at the Bengals’ defensive tackle situation, why standing pat would be a mistake, and what realistic options exist through free agency, trades, or a potential DJ Reader reunion as Cincinnati tries to fix a long-standing defensive weakness.

OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING:

Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds

Chatterbox Bearcats: https://chatterboxbearcats.podbean.com/

The Stone Shields Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/west-4th-and-long/id1828384424

Off The Bench: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/off-the-bench-by-chatterbox-sports/id1643010062

The Flyin Lion (FC Cincinnati): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flyin-lion-fc-cincinnati-podcast/id1701368522

513 Golf: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjPJjEFaBD7VUSfdVvGjbr1_CmCepLWpr

Stone Shields breaks down a full mock offseason plan for the Cincinnati Bengals using Paul Dehner Jr.’s cap projections, with roughly $35 million in realistic spending power. He dives into key decisions on offense, including the backup quarterback debate, why Joe Flacco makes sense, and which young Bengals deserve extensions.

Stone explains why Cincinnati should largely run it back on offense, avoid overspending at wide receiver, and keep continuity along the offensive line—while still planning for the future. The episode then shifts to cut candidates, cap flexibility, and the tough choices facing the defensive line.

The most under-discussed topic of the offseason takes center stage: a potential Joe Burrow contract restructure and how it could unlock major spending power. Stone wraps with a deep dive into defensive upgrades, draft priorities, and why linebacker may be the best place for the Bengals to spend big in a critical win-now offseason.

OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING:

Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds

Chatterbox Bearcats: https://chatterboxbearcats.podbean.com/

The Stone Shields Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/west-4th-and-long/id1828384424

Off The Bench: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/off-the-bench-by-chatterbox-sports/id1643010062

The Flyin Lion (FC Cincinnati): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flyin-lion-fc-cincinnati-podcast/id1701368522

513 Golf: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjPJjEFaBD7VUSfdVvGjbr1_CmCepLWpr

Stone Shields breaks down Mel Kiper Jr.’s latest 2026 NFL Mock Draft and what it could mean for the Cincinnati Bengals. From Fernando Mendoza’s rise to consensus No. 1 overall, to Arll Reese’s elite defensive upside, Stone walks through the top of the draft and the key quarterback, edge rusher, and offensive line storylines shaping the first round.

The focus then shifts to Cincinnati’s critical position at Pick No. 10. Could elite safety Caleb Downs fall into the Bengals’ lap? Would the front office consider trading up to secure him? Stone explains why Downs would be a franchise-changing defensive leader — and why landing him would be a dream scenario for the Bengals.

Plus, analysis of other defensive targets like David Bailey, Ruben Bain Jr., Sunny Styles, and Kaden McDonald, along with strong opinions on which prospects Cincinnati must avoid. Stone also dives into league-wide team needs, coaching situations, and how early picks by teams like the Raiders, Jets, Chiefs, and Commanders could shape the board.

If you’re a Bengals fan preparing for draft season, this is a must-listen breakdown of possibilities, pitfalls, and best-case scenarios at the top of the board.

OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING:

Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds

Chatterbox Bearcats: https://chatterboxbearcats.podbean.com/

The Stone Shields Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/west-4th-and-long/id1828384424

Off The Bench: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/off-the-bench-by-chatterbox-sports/id1643010062

The Flyin Lion (FC Cincinnati): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flyin-lion-fc-cincinnati-podcast/id1701368522

513 Golf: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjPJjEFaBD7VUSfdVvGjbr1_CmCepLWpr

Stone Shields sits down with Geoff Hobson, senior writer for Bengals.com, for a wide-ranging conversation on the state of the Cincinnati Bengals and the road ahead.

Hobson shares insight from his recent offseason awards piece, including why Ja’Marr Chase earned team MVP honors and what the future may hold for breakout running back Chase Brown. The two dive into contract extension possibilities, the impact of new offensive line coach Scott Peters, and how improved protection helped unlock the Bengals’ offense in 2025.

The discussion shifts to the defensive side of the ball — linebacker concerns, potential free-agent additions, and why fixing the defense is priority No. 1 this offseason. Hobson also weighs in on Joe Burrow’s mindset, Duke Tobin’s offseason strategy, the importance of retaining Joe Flacco as a backup, and what the Bengals might do with the No. 10 pick in the NFL Draft.

Plus, thoughts on the AFC North’s coaching shake-up, memories of past Bengals roster builds, and a bonus detour into Hobson’s (frustrated) Red Sox fandom.

A must-listen for Bengals fans looking for insider perspective, offseason clarity, and a little humor along the way.

OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING:

Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds

Chatterbox Bearcats: https://chatterboxbearcats.podbean.com/

The Stone Shields Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/west-4th-and-long/id1828384424

Off The Bench: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/off-the-bench-by-chatterbox-sports/id1643010062

The Flyin Lion (FC Cincinnati): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flyin-lion-fc-cincinnati-podcast/id1701368522

513 Golf: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjPJjEFaBD7VUSfdVvGjbr1_CmCepLWpr

Host Stone Shields breaks down the growing buzz around Bengals offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher and his reported interview with the Cleveland Browns. Could Pitcher be on the move, and how realistic is a departure from Cincinnati? Stone examines why Pitcher is gaining head coaching attention, what his exit would mean for the Bengals offense, and the internal and external candidates who could replace him.

Plus, Amarius Mims pushes for Dalton Risner’s return, the Bengals’ best path to re-signing him, and reactions to Dane Brugler’s All-Rookie honorable mentions for Dylan Fairchild, Demetrius Knight, and Barrett Carter.

A must-listen for Bengals fans tracking coaching moves, roster decisions, and the team’s offseason direction.

OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING:

Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds

Chatterbox Bearcats: https://chatterboxbearcats.podbean.com/

The Stone Shields Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/west-4th-and-long/id1828384424

Off The Bench: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/off-the-bench-by-chatterbox-sports/id1643010062

The Flyin Lion (FC Cincinnati): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flyin-lion-fc-cincinnati-podcast/id1701368522

513 Golf: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjPJjEFaBD7VUSfdVvGjbr1_CmCepLWpr

Reid Maus and Stone Shields welcome The Athletic’s Paul Dehner Jr., host of the Growler podcast, for an in-depth conversation on the state of the Cincinnati Bengals. Paul breaks down his recent column on why continuity with Duke Tobin and Zac Taylor may be the Bengals’ best path forward — and why a “keep it simple” offseason could be key to a 2026 rebound.

The trio dives into Joe Burrow’s influence within the organization, the pressure cooker nature of next season, and whether major coaching or front office changes ever truly made sense. They also examine looming defensive roster turnover, including the expected departure of Trey Hendrickson, the futures of Cam Taylor-Britt and Joseph Ossai, and the Bengals’ plan to rebuild a struggling defense.

Plus, Paul discusses the linebacker room, free agency strategy, cap space outlook, and just how many new defensive starters could arrive next season. The episode wraps with some fun — including Pearl Jam, OutKast, and Paul’s all-time favorite concert stories.

OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING:

Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds

Chatterbox Bearcats: https://chatterboxbearcats.podbean.com/

The Stone Shields Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/west-4th-and-long/id1828384424

Off The Bench: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/off-the-bench-by-chatterbox-sports/id1643010062

The Flyin Lion (FC Cincinnati): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flyin-lion-fc-cincinnati-podcast/id1701368522

513 Golf: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjPJjEFaBD7VUSfdVvGjbr1_CmCepLWpr