Trade Talks: What Would It Take for the Bengals to Move Trey Hendrickson?
The Cincinnati Bengals are at a pivotal moment this offseason, with rumors swirling around the potential trade of star edge rusher Trey Hendrickson. While Hendrickson has been a cornerstone of the Bengals’ defense since signing with the team in 2021, speculation suggests that Cincinnati may entertain offers for the Pro Bowl pass rusher.
But what would it take for the Bengals to actually pull the trigger on such a deal, and what impact would it have on the team’s defensive outlook?
Hendrickson’s Impact on Cincinnati
Since arriving in Cincinnati, Hendrickson has been nothing short of dominant. With his relentless motor and elite pass-rushing skills, he has recorded double-digit sacks in multiple seasons and established himself as one of the league’s premier edge rushers. His ability to generate pressure has been a key factor in the Bengals’ defensive success, helping the team remain competitive in a loaded AFC North.
At 29 years old, Hendrickson is still in his prime, and his contract remains manageable for a team looking to win now. However, with the Bengals facing salary cap decisions and needing to address other roster areas, a trade could be on the table if the right offer presents itself.
What Would a Trade Look Like?
For the Bengals to consider moving Hendrickson, the return would have to be significant. Here are some possible trade scenarios:
- High Draft Capital: A first-round pick or a package involving multiple Day 2 picks could entice Cincinnati to part ways with Hendrickson, especially if they believe they can draft a younger, cost-controlled pass rusher.
- Player Swap: If the Bengals receive an impact player—such as an offensive lineman or a defensive tackle—it could help address other roster weaknesses while compensating for the loss of Hendrickson.
- Cap Relief & Future Assets: Cincinnati could opt to clear cap space while acquiring future draft picks, allowing them to build for long-term success rather than being locked into a large contract.
Potential Landing Spots
Several teams around the league could be interested in adding a proven pass rusher like Hendrickson:
- Atlanta Falcons – A team looking to bolster its defensive front after struggling with pass rush production in recent seasons.
- Chicago Bears – With a young and improving defense, adding a veteran like Hendrickson could accelerate their rebuild.
- Houston Texans – A team on the rise that could use another pass-rushing threat to complement their defensive scheme.
- Detroit Lions – A contender needing more firepower on defense to compete with the elite offenses in the NFC.
The Bengals’ Dilemma
Trading Hendrickson would create a void on the Bengals’ defensive line, forcing them to find a reliable replacement.
While Cincinnati has young talent like Myles Murphy and Joseph Ossai, neither has yet proven capable of replicating Hendrickson’s production consistently. If the Bengals do move him, they will likely need to invest in another edge rusher via free agency or the draft.
Final Thoughts
Trey Hendrickson has been a crucial part of the Bengals’ defensive identity, and trading him would be a bold move.
While Cincinnati may consider offers, the return would have to be substantial to justify parting with one of the league’s top pass rushers. As trade rumors continue to circulate, Bengals fans will be watching closely to see if their defensive leader remains in stripes or if the team decides to shake things up for the future.
