Exploring what an extension that keeps Alex Anzalone in Detroit for remainder of his career could look like
Allen Park — Trey Hendrickson's situation in Cincinnati highlights a longstanding inequity in the balance of power with NFL contracts.
For the vast majority of deals, teams can move on after a year or two with minimal financial ramifications if a player isn't performing to expectations, or, worse yet, when a cheaper alternative is obtained via the draft.
But what if a player outperforms their contract, meriting a raise? It’s rare that a team willingly cuts a check earlier than necessary to reward exceptional performance.
When Hendrickson signed a four-year, $60 million contract with the Bengals in 2021, it was a relatively good deal for a player with only one year of high-level production. It wasn't top 10 for his position, but it registered just outside that range.
Now, 57.0 sacks, four Pro Bowl selections and 2024 All-Pro honors later, he is unquestionably underpaid. A handful of edge rushers at the top of the market are currently paid more than double what Hendrickson signed for in 2021. And as he approaches his 31st birthday, the window to maximize his earnings is closing rapidly.
That's why Hendrickson recently told the world he won't play this season on the current deal. Holding out isn't ideal, but it's the most powerful option a player has to gain leverage while under contract.
That brings us to Detroit Lions linebacker Alex Anzalone. While his situation isn't toxic, like it is between Hendrickson and the Bengals, there are similarities.