In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through the NFL community, the Cincinnati Bengals have officially confirmed the departure of three key players from their roster, just weeks ahead of the 2025 regular season kickoff.
In a press release issued Monday morning, the Bengals organization announced that wide receiver Tee Higgins, linebacker Logan Wilson, and defensive end Trey Hendrickson will not be returning for the upcoming campaign, citing a combination of contract decisions, cap space limitations, and mutual parting of ways.
The End of an Era
The news marks a dramatic shift for the Bengals, who just three years ago were AFC title contenders and had built one of the most cohesive units in the league. All three players were considered core members of the franchise’s playoff runs and Super Bowl push earlier in the decade.
Tee Higgins, the dynamic wideout who formed a potent duo with Ja’Marr Chase, is expected to test free agency after contract extension talks stalled for months.
“We had extensive discussions with Tee and his representatives,” said Bengals GM Duke Tobin. “Ultimately, we couldn’t reach an agreement that worked for both sides. We thank Tee for his tremendous contributions on and off the field.”
Logan Wilson, a fan-favorite and the team’s leading tackler for multiple seasons, will reportedly be released in a move that surprised many. Sources close to the situation say it was primarily a financial decision as the Bengals look to reallocate resources across the defense.
Trey Hendrickson, the Pro Bowl edge rusher, has reportedly requested a trade earlier this offseason due to reported internal disagreements with the defensive coaching staff. The Bengals confirmed on Monday that both sides have “mutually agreed to part ways,” and he has been granted permission to seek a new team.
Player Reactions Pour In
While the Bengals tried to strike a diplomatic tone in their announcement, the mood among players and fans has been anything but calm. Several current and former teammates expressed disbelief on social media.
Quarterback Joe Burrow posted a cryptic message on Instagram:
“Tough day. Some things don’t make sense. Much love to my brothers.”
Ja’Marr Chase added on X (formerly Twitter):
“Can’t lie, this one hurts. That’s all I’m gonna say.”
The locker room shake-up has reportedly left several players shocked and unsure of the team’s immediate direction, especially as they aim to rebound from last season’s Wild Card exit.
Front Office Faces Pressure
Fans have taken to social media to voice their frustrations, many questioning the Bengals’ long-term strategy and salary cap management. While the Bengals have several young prospects on the rise, losing three veteran starters in one day has raised concerns about whether the team is rebuilding or simply misfiring on key decisions.
“It feels like we’re going backward,” one Bengals season ticket holder said. “You don’t let leaders like Wilson and Hendrickson walk unless you’ve got a clear plan — and right now, it doesn’t look like we do.”
What’s Next for Cincinnati?
The Bengals now head into the final stretch of preseason preparations with notable gaps in all three phases of their game. While insiders say the team is eyeing reinforcements in free agency and potential trades, fans and analysts alike are questioning whether the timing of these moves will ultimately derail their 2025 playoff hopes.
One thing is clear: the Bengals are betting on youth, flexibility, and a reimagined future. Whether that gamble pays off remains to be seen.
The Jungle has been shaken — and now all eyes turn to how Cincinnati responds.
