The Detroit Lions have emerged as a leading contender to acquire All-Pro defensive end Trey Hendrickson from the Cincinnati Bengals. With the Bengals granting Hendrickson permission to seek a trade, the Lions’ interest underscores their commitment to bolstering their pass rush and solidifying their defense for a potential Super Bowl run.Athlon Sports+12Cincy Jungle+12NFL.com+12FOX Sports+6Detroit Jock City+6Sportscasting | Pure Sports+6
Trey Hendrickson has established himself as one of the premier pass rushers in the NFL. In the 2024 season, he led the league with 17.5 sacks, earning first-team All-Pro honors and his fourth consecutive Pro Bowl selection. Over the past two seasons, Hendrickson has amassed 35 sacks and 61 quarterback hits, showcasing his consistent ability to disrupt opposing offenses . Since joining the Bengals in 2021, he has recorded 57 sacks, ranking third in the league during that span .M Sports+8ESPN.com+8FOX Sports+8Detroit Sports NationWDIV+2FOX Sports+2ESPN.com+2
Despite Hendrickson’s on-field success, the Bengals face financial constraints, particularly with wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins seeking lucrative extensions. Hendrickson, entering the final year of his contract with a $15.8 million base salary, has requested a trade to secure a long-term deal elsewhere . The Bengals’ decision to allow him to explore trade options reflects their prioritization of offensive talent and salary cap management.Detroit Jock City+3WDIV+3FOX Sports+3Sportscasting | Pure Sports+1Detroit Sports Nation+1
The Detroit Lions are well-positioned to acquire Hendrickson, both financially and strategically. With approximately $52 million in salary cap space, the Lions can absorb Hendrickson’s current contract and negotiate a potential extension . Their defense, which ranked 23rd in the NFL with 37 sacks in 2024, would benefit significantly from Hendrickson’s presence .Athlon Sports+8M Sports+8Cincy Jungle+8Sportscasting | Pure Sports+1Detroit Sports Nation+1
Pairing Hendrickson with rising star Aidan Hutchinson would create a formidable pass-rushing duo, enhancing the Lions’ ability to pressure quarterbacks and disrupt offensive schemes. This combination could be pivotal in the Lions’ pursuit of a Super Bowl appearance.
Acquiring Hendrickson would likely require the Lions to part with valuable draft assets. One proposed trade involves the Lions sending their 2025 second-round pick and a 2026 third-round pick to the Bengals in exchange for Hendrickson . Given Hendrickson’s age (30) and contract status, the Bengals may be amenable to such a deal, especially as they focus on retaining their offensive core.Detroit Sports Nation+1Cincy Jungle+1Yardbarker+2Athlon Sports+2Detroit Sports Nation+2A
The Lions’ interest in Hendrickson aligns with their “win-now” mentality. By strengthening their defense, they aim to complement their potent offense and position themselves as serious contenders in the NFC. Hendrickson’s experience and proven track record would provide immediate impact, leadership, and depth to the defensive line.Detroit Jock City+4M Sports+4Yardbarker+4
Moreover, Hendrickson’s familiarity with Lions head coach Dan Campbell, from their time together in New Orleans, could facilitate a smooth transition and integration into the team’s culture and defensive schemes .NFL.com+7Yardbarker+7Cincy Jungle+7
The potential acquisition of Trey Hendrickson represents a strategic move for the Detroit Lions, addressing a critical need in their defense and reinforcing their commitment to competing at the highest level. While the trade would involve significant investment in terms of draft capital and salary, the immediate benefits and long-term aspirations justify the pursuit. As the offseason progresses, the Lions’ actions will reveal their dedication to building a championship-caliber team
