Former teammates and now rivals are exactly what Joe Burrow and Trey Hendrickson have now become. As Hendrickson joined the Baltimore Ravens back in March, the dynamic has shifted between the former Bengals players.

Baltimore and Cincinnati share an intense divisional rivalry. Regularly clashing against one another in the AFC North competition. However, Burrow is not worried and gives a stern warning to his friend turned rival.

"I know Trey, I love Trey, and I just know how he operates," said Burrow subtly.

Burrow was recently part of the Sports Seriously podcast, where he talked about Hendrickson.

Burrow has played five seasons together with Hendrickson. During that period, they have played over 50 games. Naturally, he knows about Trey and his technique.

Last season, Hendrickson had 11 solo tackles and 3 tackles for loss with 8 quarterback hits. The 117-game veteran can no doubt pose problems for the Bengals, but for Burrow, the familiarity may give him an edge in knowing Hendrickson's next move.

The last meeting between the Ravens and Bengals saw a complete wipeout for the latter. It was a 24-0 drubbing for the Bengals, and now, understandably, they would be keen to seek revenge.

But with Hendrickson playing against them, Burrow and the Bengals camp know it won't be easy. Yet Burrow is positive about winning that battle. Burrow's resume of over 20,000 yards and 157 TD's does mean that their upcoming battle will be intense.

Baltimore other hand, will have to rely on Hendrickson's defensive acumen to stop the onslaught. Ravens defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver is naturally liking what he is seeing with Trey.

Anthony Weaver Calls Trey Hendrickson A 'Pro'

The attackers are never at ease with Trey Hendrickson on the field. The veteran pass rusher is known for causing disruptions.

"Trey Hendrickson is a pro. The way you see him move and operate and just his approach to work, he is as detailed a player as I've been around. Whether it's a walk-through, whatever it is, he is trying to operate as if it's the most important play in the history of football," says Weaver

The Ravens signed Hendrickson after backing out of a blockbuster trade for Maxx Crosby due to medical concerns discovered during Crosby's physical evaluation.

The Ravens dished out a lucrative contract with a $112 million base value, reaching up to $120 million with sack incentives for a four-year deal.

Hendrickson racked up 17.5 sacks in consecutive seasons back in 2023 and 2024. That also would have been enough for the Ravens to get him on board.

As for the Bengals, they will have to deal with a new, aggressive defender for the divisional title.

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Written by

Sourav Ganguly

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote