Cincinnati Bengals star pass-rusher Trey Hendrickson is one of the top names to follow on the trade market with offseason OTAs just around the corner.
Last week, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that both Trey Hendrickson and wide receiver Tee Higgins requested trades from Cincinnati. That led to speculation that one or both stars would get traded during draft weekend, but nothing ever materialized.
Both Hendrickson and Higgins are said to be unhappy with their contract situations. The former is signed for two more seasons, while Higgins was assigned the franchise tag that prevented him from entering free agency.
Ideally, the Bengals and Hendrickson would agree on an extension or a restructured deal. But if he remains firm on his trade request, Cincinnati may have no choice but to trade the MVP of their defense.
The Detroit Lions stand out as a logical landing spot for the three-time Pro Bowler. This club is coming off its first trip to the NFC Championship Game in 32 years, and they’re just a piece or two away from bringing Motor City its first championship.
Hendrickson has recorded double-digit sacks in three of the last four seasons, including a career-high 17.5 last season. The Lions already have one of football’s best edge rushers in Aidan Hutchinson, but their defense would reach another level with Hendrickson working alongside the Michigan product.
What The Lions Should Offer Bengals For Trey Hendrickson
Since Hendrickson is under contract for two more seasons, the Lions shouldn’t be afraid to pay a pretty penny for his services. After all, Hendrickson can single-handedly take over a game and help Detroit emerge as the new team to beat in the NFC.
The Lions should offer the Bengals their 2025 second-round pick in exchange for Hendrickson. A first-rounder would be too pricy, and the Lions don’t owe a 2025 third-rounder after sending it to the New York Jets.
Detroit could even agree to an extension with Hendrickson right away to sweeten the deal on their end. For Cincy, a second-round pick is a nice return for a player that doesn’t want to suit up for them again.
