Trey Hendrickson injury update: Cincinnati Bengals defensive end expected to be out against Pittsburgh Steelers

Trey Hendrickson, a key player on the Bengals’ defensive line, suffered a hip injury in the second half of Cincinnati’s 27-18 loss to the Green Bay Packers in Week 6. Trey Hendrickson injury update (file photo) (IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) Steelers star defensive end Trey Hendrickson is expected to miss the game missed due to a hip injury. This development leaves a significant gap in Cincinnati’s pass rush as they take on their AFC North rivals. Trey Hendrickson’s injury and impact Trey Hendrickson, a key player on the Bengals’ defensive line, suffered a hip injury in the second half of Cincinnati’s 27-18 loss to the Green Bay Packers in Week 6. The injury, initially reported as a back issue, forced him out of the game and kept him out of the Steelers’ practice game all week. Despite being listed as questionable, the short turnaround for Thursday’s game made it unlikely that the All-Pro would suit up. Trey Hendrickson’s performance The 30-year-old fringe has been a significant part of the Cincinnati Bengals since joining in 2021. This season, he leads the team with four sacks, eight quarterback hits, 15 tackles and a forced fumble through six games. His back-to-back seasons of 17.5 sacks in 2023 and 2024 highlight his value, making his absence a critical blow to a Bengals defense that is already struggling, 30th in the NFL, allowing 27.2 points per game. Defensive Line Adjustments While Trey Hendrickson’s absence stings, the Cincinnati Bengals will see a silver lining with the return of rookie edge rusher Shemar Stewart. Since being sidelined in Week 2 with an ankle injury, the first-round pick is ready to make his comeback. Bengals defensive coordinator Al Golden expressed optimism earlier this week, saying, “I expected Stewart to get significant playing time against the AFC North leaders.” However, Stewart, who has yet to record a sack in limited action, faces a big order filling Hendrickson’s shoes against a high-powered Steelers offense. Cincinnati may lean on creative schemes, such as increased lineout blitzes from players like Logan Wilson, to generate pressure. However, this approach risks exposing their secondary to Pittsburgh quarterback Najee Harris and a passing attack led by either Russell Wilson or a rookie quarterback. Cincinnati Bengals playoff game At 2-4, the Bengals are desperate to snap a four-game losing streak and keep pace in the AFC North, where Pittsburgh leads 4-1. Hendrickson’s absence could tip the scales in a rivalry game where every play counts. Offensively, Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase will have to carry the load, but a depleted defense could force riskier play calls to stick.