Trey Hendrickson, the Cincinnati Bengals’ star pass-rusher, finds himself at a crossroads with his current team. As the reigning NFL sack leader, Hendrickson has established himself as one of the most dominant defensive players in the league. However, despite his impressive production and recognition, the Bengals are reportedly unwilling to grant him a contract extension ahead of his final year. With an $18.6 million cap hit looming in 2025, it appears that Hendrickson’s future in Cincinnati may be uncertain.
The situation has escalated to the point where Hendrickson has publicly expressed his desire for a new contract. This has raised speculation that a trade might be on the horizon. So, if the Bengals are indeed open to trading their four-time Pro Bowler, which teams should be in the mix? Here are five of the best potential landing spots for Trey Hendrickson, should a trade become a reality.
1. Miami Dolphins
The Miami Dolphins have emerged as one of the top contenders for a pass rusher to complement their already formidable defensive unit. Miami’s defense has improved in recent years, but they remain in need of a premier edge rusher to add pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Hendrickson would fit perfectly into head coach Mike McDaniel’s defensive scheme, offering the Dolphins a proven threat off the edge.
The Dolphins have been aggressive in their pursuit of talent over the last few seasons, and acquiring Hendrickson would solidify their pass rush and elevate their defense even further. Miami has the cap space and could potentially offer a package that appeals to the Bengals, including draft picks and possibly a player to help fill a need in Cincinnati.
2. Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys are always in the mix for high-profile defensive players, and Trey Hendrickson would be a perfect fit for their defense. The Cowboys’ defensive line already includes stars like Micah Parsons, but adding another elite pass rusher like Hendrickson would give them one of the most fearsome front sevens in the league.
With veteran edge rushers like DeMarcus Lawrence aging, Hendrickson could step in and immediately contribute to a team that has Super Bowl aspirations. Dallas has the financial flexibility to make a move for Hendrickson, and they could offer Cincinnati a strong trade package that includes draft capital and young talent on defense. The Cowboys have been known to make aggressive moves, and adding a player of Hendrickson’s caliber would only make them more dangerous.
3. Buffalo Bills
The Buffalo Bills’ defense has been formidable in recent years, but there has been a consistent need for more pressure on opposing quarterbacks. With star linebacker Von Miller entering the later stages of his career, Hendrickson could provide the Bills with a much-needed boost to their pass rush. Adding Hendrickson to a defensive line that already includes Ed Oliver and Greg Rousseau would make Buffalo’s pass rush one of the most potent in the NFL.
The Bills are in win-now mode, and a trade for Hendrickson could help elevate their defense to championship level. With the team possessing an impressive collection of draft assets, Buffalo could easily package a deal that meets Cincinnati’s needs, potentially swapping future picks or a player that could contribute right away.
4. Kansas City Chiefs
The Kansas City Chiefs are perennial Super Bowl contenders, but their defense has occasionally come under scrutiny. While the Chiefs have an explosive offense led by Patrick Mahomes, their defense has shown weaknesses, especially when it comes to pressuring opposing quarterbacks. Hendrickson would provide them with a much-needed edge rusher who could consistently get after the quarterback and bolster their pass rush.
Kansas City has been aggressive in making moves to improve its defense, and Hendrickson would fit right in with their vision of becoming a more complete team. The Chiefs have the cap space and the draft capital to pull off a trade for Hendrickson, potentially offering future picks or a young player to sweeten the deal for the Bengals. A Hendrickson addition could push the Chiefs’ defense over the top, making them even more dangerous in the postseason.
5. Philadelphia Eagles
The Philadelphia Eagles are one of the most complete teams in the NFL, and their defense is a major reason for their success. The Eagles already have a stellar pass rush, but with Brandon Graham aging and the potential for some changes along the defensive line, acquiring a player like Hendrickson could help solidify their edge rush for years to come.
Philadelphia has always been a team willing to make bold moves, and Hendrickson would give them an elite pass rusher who can impact the game from day one. With their ability to compete for a Super Bowl, the Eagles could offer Cincinnati a strong trade package, perhaps including draft picks and a player to help the Bengals reload for the future. Hendrickson’s addition would make an already stout defensive line even more formidable.
Conclusion: The Future of Trey Hendrickson
As the Bengals and Trey Hendrickson approach a potential impasse, it’s clear that the four-time Pro Bowler deserves a raise and extension to reflect his status as one of the best pass rushers in the league. However, with the Bengals hesitant to meet his demands and Hendrickson making his frustrations known, the possibility of a trade is becoming more realistic.
The Miami Dolphins, Dallas Cowboys, Buffalo Bills, Kansas City Chiefs, and Philadelphia Eagles are all prime candidates to make a move for Hendrickson, as each of these teams has a need for a game-changing pass rusher. A trade could benefit both Hendrickson and the Bengals, with the latter gaining draft capital or players to help them in the long run, while the former gets the opportunity to play for a championship contender.
Whether the Bengals decide to trade Hendrickson or eventually work out a new deal with him, one thing is clear—teams around the league are paying close attention to his situation.