One could debate for a long time whether the Bengals will care at all about what the Steelers do with T.J. Watt or otherwise. The fact Hendrickson was permitted to seek a trade and couldn’t find one, though, continues to hint that the Bengals hold most of the leverage, regardless.

The last remaining is Hendrickson, but he was always the most complicated subject. His past recent short extension, age (30) and the actual market value on pass-rushers who lead the NFL in sacks – to name a few of the many factors – explain the hangup.