The Cincinnati Bengals made a rare move Thursday, granting star defensive end Trey Hendrickson permission to seek a trade after four seasons with the team.
“It’s been an honor and privilege to represent Cincinnati over the last four years,” Hendrickson said (h/t ESPN’s Adam Schefter). “I love this city and organization. I appreciate the privilege of now being allowed to explore my options.”
The 30-year-old led the NFL in sacks in 2024 with 17.5, earning first-team All-Pro honors for the first time in his career.
Several teams would be well served by adding Hendrickson to their defense.
Here are three ideal landing spots for the 2017 third-round selection:
Washington Commanders
The Commanders ranked 13th in total defense and third against the pass in 2024 but lacked a star pass-rusher.
Per Michael Silver of The Athletic, defensive end Jonathan Allen will be released if the team cannot find a trade partner, leaving another hole on a defensive line that combined for just 10.5 sacks in 2024.
Perhaps Cincinnati will consider a straight swap with Washington for Allen, a two-time Pro Bowler. If not, Hendrickson would still slot in well as a replacement for Allen.
Los Angeles Chargers
With the news of star pass-rusher Joey Bosa’s release breaking Wednesday, the Chargers need a replacement.
Hendrickson has a better track record health-wise compared to Bosa and comes with a much cheaper cap hit ($18M to Bosa’s $25.36M).
General manager Joe Hortiz should do his due diligence on a trade with Cincinnati.
Detroit Lions
With star defensive end Aidan Hutchinson still recovering from a broken leg, Detroit needs someone to fill that gap and help second-stringer Za’Darius Smith.
The team reportedly had interest in Hendrickson at the 2024 trade deadline but couldn’t make a deal happen.
Head coach Dan Campbell seeks out grit and toughness in his defensive additions, and Hendrickson fits that bill.
The new league year begins Wednesday (March 12) with free agency.
