The Cincinnati Bengals don't just have an elite offense, their defense is also very formidable.

Over the last two seasons, they've finished fifth and seventh in the fewest points allowed and were seventh against the run in 2022. That's been thanks in large part to edge rusher, Trey Hendrickson. 

He's only been in Cincinnati for two seasons, but Hendrickson has logged 137 of his 243 career pressures and 81 of his 143 hurries. Also, he's earned back-to-back Pro Bowl selections with the Bengals.

His name isn't one of the first you hear when edge rushers get mentioned, but Hendrickson was recognized as the ninth-best in the NFL earlier this week.

Hendrickson has aged like a fine wine, as his pass-rush grade has increased every season, culminating in an elite 90.2 pass-rush grade this past season while finishing top 12 in pressures (62).-Trevor Sikkema, PFF 

In addition to his pass-rush grade elevating, Hendrickson has seen his overall defense grade increase every year except 2019, and the 85.0 he registered last season was a career-high.

Hendrickson spent his first four seasons with the New Orleans Saints and logged 20 sacks. Since he came to "Rule the Jungle" with the Bengals, Hendrickson has racked up 22 sacks, including a franchise record 14 in 2021 which speaks once again to the consistent elevation in his game.

In 2021, the Bengals made a run to the Super Bowl, and Hendrickson played lights out. He tallied 3.5 sacks in four postseason games which included 2.5 in the AFC Championship Game and the Super Bowl combined. 

Hendrickson signed a four-year deal worth $60 million to come to Cincinnati, and it's safe to say that the investment has paid off.

Feature image via Joseph Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports