Ted Karras called Trey Hendrickson “The Closer,” after he unloaded on Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence with a game-ending sack that all but ran out the clock in Sunday’s stunning win at Paycor Stadium.
But on the 50th anniversary of the movie, we’re going with “Jaws,” because Hendrickson plays like a relentless shark who can smell blood in the water. According to Elias, since he joined the Bengals in 2021, his 25.5 fourth-quarter sacks lead the league.
“Basically, a walk-off sack to end the game when you need him the most. That’s when he shows up. you need that from your big-time players,” said new Bengals linebacker Oren Burks, who should know as a starter in the last two Super Bowls.
The fin is above the water, he’s circling, and he’s sniffing for blood.
He’s had at least half-a-sack in five straight games dating back to last season, his 37 sacks since 2023 Opening Day are 5.5 clear of his next pursuer, and Pro Football Focus has him with the early-season league lead with 14 pressures.
You may not need a bigger boat, but you’re certainly going to need more blockers.
An eight-year vet, Burks is getting his first look at Hendrickson and the man is as advertised.
“You don’t get 17.5 sacks two years in a row by accident. I can see why he does,” Burks said after Wednesday’s practice. “I think it’s because the way he handles everything as a pro. The way he takes care of his body. He watches what he eats. His nutrition is phenomenal. I think it’s the mentality he has. You can tell he’s particular about the small things. Small things are what win you games in the long run.”
Hendrickson is certainly chewing through some historical numbers. That sack of Lawrence is his 59th as a Bengal, tying him with the late great Ross Browner for fifth on the club’s sack list. Up next, Hizzoner himself, two-time Bengals Super Bowl linebacker Reggie Williams, has 62.5. Then the Big Three of Geno Atkins (75.5), Carlos Dunlap (82.5), and Eddie Edwards (83.5) loom.
“When you look at our interceptions this year, the pressure has been usually coming from Trey,” said safety Geno Stone, who says the NFL sack champion hasn’t missed a step from last season. “QBs have to get it out. We’re starting to get in sync with rush and coverage. We’re getting enough time, and he’s getting there for us.”
Last Sunday, both interceptions came as a result of Hendrickson barging into the pocket to pressure Lawrence. In the opener in Cleveland, he was bending the edge as Joe Flacco uncorked the killer pick with 90 seconds left.
Cue the haunting, relentless Jaws theme.
“Game-changer,” Stone said.