Hendrickson Hits Free Market After Bengals Pass on Franchise Tag

The Indianapolis Colts are expected to be among the teams interested in Hendrickson, who led the NFL in sacks in 2024 but was limited to seven games last season due to injuries. The Colts have significant needs at defensive end and have connections to Hendrickson through former Bengals defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo and new Colts defensive line coach Marion Hobby, who helped develop him into one of the league's most disruptive pass rushers.

The Colts previously expressed interest in Hendrickson last offseason and are well-positioned salary cap-wise to make a significant offer. According to Pro Football Focus, Hendrickson is projected to sign a one-year deal worth $21 million and is expected to have a strong market.