Bengals Grant Pass Rusher Hendrickson Permission to Seek Trade

CINCINNATI, Ohio — The Cincinnati Bengals have officially given All-Pro edge rusher Trey Hendrickson permission to explore trade opportunities, NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero reported on Thursday.

Hendrickson, drafted in the third round by the New Orleans Saints in 2017, joined the Bengals as a significant free-agent acquisition in 2021. Over his tenure in Cincinnati, he has consistently delivered strong performances, recording double-digit sack totals in three out of four seasons. In 2024, Hendrickson led the NFL with 17.5 sacks and earned his first All-Pro selection, showcasing remarkable talent despite the Bengals’ defensive struggles.

“He has proven to be an elite pass rusher in this league,” said Rapoport. “However, at 30 years old, the Bengals no longer see him fitting into their long-term plans, which factored into this decision.”

The Bengals are looking to maximize their return in a potential trade involving Hendrickson, who has one year remaining on his contract. His deal is projected to account for $18.66 million in cap space for 2025, including a base salary of $15.8 million. With no guaranteed money left on the contract and two consecutive seasons of 17.5 sacks, Hendrickson is considered a valuable asset for teams in need of defensive assistance.

Cincinnati stands to save $16 million in cap space by trading Hendrickson this offseason, presenting a financially favorable scenario for the team. However, parting with him could significantly weaken their defensive lineup. Currently, the Bengals may face the challenge of entering 2025 without both of their starting defensive ends, with potential free agents and a reliance on 2023 first-round pick Myles Murphy, a rotational player thus far in his career.

“It will be a struggle to rebuild the edge rush without Hendrickson,” noted a league analyst. “Cincinnati will need to work diligently to fill that gap.”

With trade discussions heating up, several teams have emerged as potential landing spots for Hendrickson:

1) **Detroit Lions**: The Lions became a leading candidate for an edge rusher after an injury sidelined their defensive ace last season. Following a commendable trade for Cleveland Browns defensive end Chase Smith, Detroit remains in search of additional depth. With $51 million in cap space, they can afford Hendrickson’s current salary and pursue an extension, creating a formidable duo alongside fellow pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson.

2) **Buffalo Bills**: In their continuous push for a championship, the Bills could see Hendrickson as a necessary addition to their defensive strategy. With a solid pass rush already in place, they might consider him to further bolster their capabilities.

3) **New York Jets**: The Jets are another potential fit, especially considering their efforts to enhance their defense. The acquisition of Hendrickson could help lift their pass rush as they contend for playoff positioning.

4) **Philadelphia Eagles**: With their exceptional defensive line, the Eagles could utilize Hendrickson to keep their defensive strengths intact and ensure continuity in their rush defense.

5) **San Francisco 49ers**: As a team focusing on building a dominant defense, adding Hendrickson could help the 49ers maintain their status as a competitive contender in the NFC.

6) **Miami Dolphins**: The Dolphins could strengthen their defense by trading for Hendrickson, assessing what he would provide to their overall game plan.

7) **Indianapolis Colts**: Looking to improve their pass-rushing capabilities, the Colts may pursue a trade to bring Hendrickson aboard.

8) **Tennessee Titans**: With a goal of enhancing their pass defense, the Titans may view Hendrickson as a vital component for their roster moving forward.

The outcome of Hendrickson’s potential trade remains to be seen as the offseason unfolds, but his impressive track record makes him one of the most sought-after players on the market.