As we’ve stressed repeatedly, the Bengals aren’t really a legit Kupp trade candidate. Higgins is a much better option and, beyond the trade cost and contract, Kupp is on the wrong side of 30 with spotty attendance woes the past few years.

It’s rare for a player of Hendrickson’s caliber to play on expiring deal without any long-term security, which is why this is a pressing matter for both sides. Bengals director of personnel Duke Tobin told The Enquirer the team recognizes they need to give Hendrickson a raise in an exclusive interview at the Senior Bowl last week.