Bengals Latest Injury Update: Trey Hendrickson Likely Out vs. Steelers on Thursday Night

The Bengals’ latest injury update is a major boost for the Pittsburgh Steelers as star defensive end Trey Hendrickson is expected to miss Thursday Night Football. The news significantly impacts the matchup and provides veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers more breathing room in the pocket.

Hendrickson, who suffered a hip injury in Week 6 against the Packers, missed the second half of that game and has not practiced all week. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported that the short week has made it difficult for the four-time Pro Bowler to recover in time, leaving his availability highly unlikely for Thursday’s AFC North clash.

Bengals’ Trey Hendrickson Injury Status: What We Know So Far

The Bengals defense will be without one of its most crucial pieces as Trey Hendrickson battles a lingering hip injury. Hendrickson, who led the NFL with 17.5 sacks last season, remains sidelined and is now expected to target a return in Week 8 against the New York Jets.

His absence is particularly significant given Cincinnati’s struggles this season. Through six games, Hendrickson has recorded four sacks, and his ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks has been one of the few bright spots during the Bengals’ 2–4 start. Without him, the Bengals’ pass rush will rely heavily on younger and less experienced defensive linemen.

This comes at a critical time for Pittsburgh and quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who, at 41, is focused on minimizing hits and staying upright throughout the season. Rodgers has been efficient for the Steelers so far, helping them take early control of the AFC North. Facing a Bengals defense without its top pass-rusher could allow Pittsburgh’s offensive line to better protect their veteran quarterback and open up the passing game.

The Bengals’ defensive issues are compounded by the absence of franchise quarterback Joe Burrow, who underwent toe surgery and is out indefinitely. Cincinnati briefly turned to Jake Browning before acquiring Joe Flacco, setting the stage for an unusual Thursday night matchup featuring two quarterbacks over 40 years old — Rodgers for Pittsburgh and Flacco for Cincinnati.

How Hendrickson’s Absence Could Shape Thursday Night’s Game

Hendrickson’s absence drastically alters the defensive dynamic for the Bengals. Without their elite edge rusher, Cincinnati’s defense could struggle to pressure Rodgers consistently, giving him more time to find targets and extend plays. That scenario could prove costly, especially against a Steelers offense that thrives when Rodgers operates comfortably from the pocket.

For the Bengals, the pressure is mounting. They enter Thursday’s primetime matchup on a four-game losing streak, and losing another key player only deepens their challenges. Their playoff hopes are already slipping, and a fifth straight loss would place them in an even more precarious position in the AFC race.

The Bengals latest injury update underscores how crucial Trey Hendrickson is to their defensive success. As he eyes a Week 8 return, Cincinnati must find ways to adapt without their sack leader. Meanwhile, the Steelers and Aaron Rodgers now have a clearer path to exploit a weakened Bengals defense and strengthen their hold on the division.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the Bengals latest injury update before Thursday Night Football?

Defensive end Trey Hendrickson is expected to miss the game against the Steelers due to a hip injury suffered in Week 6.

Q2: How does Trey Hendrickson’s absence affect the Bengals defense?

Without Hendrickson, the Bengals lose their top pass-rusher, making it harder to pressure Aaron Rodgers and disrupt the Steelers’ passing game.

Q3: When could Hendrickson return to the field?

He is expected to have a stronger chance of returning in Week 8 when the Bengals face the New York Jets.

Q4: How are the Bengals handling their quarterback situation?

With Joe Burrow out following toe surgery, Cincinnati initially turned to Jake Browning before trading for veteran Joe Flacco.

Q5: What is at stake for the Bengals on Thursday night?

The Bengals are attempting to end a four-game losing streak. A loss would further damage their playoff hopes and division standing.