Bengals’ Trey Hendrickson Cleared to Seek Trade: Top Landing Spots Identified

CINCINNATI, Ohio — The Cincinnati Bengals have officially granted pass rusher Trey Hendrickson permission to seek a trade as the 2025 offseason begins, signaling a potential shift for the veteran defensive end.

Hendrickson, who has led the Bengals in sacks for the last two seasons, has reportedly asked for a pay raise as he approaches the final year of his contract. He recorded 17.5 sacks last season and 46 total tackles in 2024, earning recognition as a first-team All-Pro and finishing second in the Defensive Player of the Year voting.

Despite a stellar personal performance, the Bengals’ overall defense struggled, ranking 25th in points allowed and finishing with a lackluster 28th in total yards surrendered in 2024. As the Bengals aim to rebuild, trading Hendrickson could complicate their defensive strategy.

NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport confirmed the news, stating, “It’s headed for a split, and Trey Hendrickson was in the Bengals’ office today, talking to Bengals brass. They gave him permission to seek a trade, and I do expect him to get moved.”

Trade discussions are underway, and potential suitors are already emerging. One prominent team linked to Hendrickson is the Indianapolis Colts, who recently replaced their defensive coordinator with Lou Anarumo, Hendrickson’s former coach in Cincinnati. The Colts have lagged behind in pass rush rankings, finishing 25th in sacks last season.

The Colts are not the only team in the hunt for Hendrickson. The Atlanta Falcons, who have shown strong interest in improving their edge-rushing abilities, could also be suitable candidates given Hendrickson’s history in the NFC South.

Another possible contender is the Green Bay Packers, who are looking to bolster their pass-rushing unit. With more than $46 million in projected cap space for 2025, acquiring Hendrickson could allow the Packers to focus on other areas in free agency.

The Chicago Bears are another team that could benefit from a trade for Hendrickson, particularly with their need for proven edge-rushing strength. Additionally, the Washington Commanders, flush with over $60 million in cap space, are eyeing improvements to their defensive front.

Hendrickson’s request for a trade is not a new phenomenon; he previously sought a fresh start ahead of the 2024 season before returning to lead the Bengals in sacks. His potential trade could yield significant value, as insiders suggest his market value might be comparable to that of Khalil Mack‘s trade in 2022, which involved a second-round pick.

As trade talks progress, the Bengals face a tough decision as they reconsider their approach—balancing contracts for rising stars like Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins against the potential loss of their top defender. With the clock ticking toward free agency, all eyes will be on Hendrickson and his next move in the NFL landscape.