Another day, another significant name in the NFL trade market. The Cincinnati Bengals entered the 2025 offseason aiming to secure three of their top players with long-term contracts, including pass rusher Trey Hendrickson. Now, with free agency around the corner, the club has given Hendrickson permission to seek a trade.
This isn’t the first time Hendrickson has attempted to start anew; the veteran defensive end also requested a trade ahead of the 2024 season, only to return and lead the NFL in sacks (17.5). A central factor in Hendrickson and the Bengals’ negotiations is his approach towards the final year of his contract and his ongoing request for a pay raise after logging 17.5 sacks in 2023.
Where could the four-time Pro Bowler land in 2025? At the age of 30 and seeking a higher salary, Hendrickson should see a robust market due to his impressive statistics. Here are the most viable landing spots, especially considering that Hendrickson is owed more than $18 million this year:
5. Atlanta Falcons
This move may require serious salary-cap adjustments, but the Falcons have a pressing need for edge-rushing assistance. They’ve witnessed Hendrickson’s effectiveness firsthand, having faced him as he previously played for the New Orleans Saints. General manager Terry Fontenot has history with Hendrickson from his time at the Saints when Hendrickson was drafted and developed into a Pro Bowler.
4. Indianapolis Colts
The Colts drafted Laiatu Latu last offseason, and Kwity Paye remains a consistent starter. However, Indy finished 25th in sacks in 2024. New defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, who previously managed Hendrickson’s decades of effective play, provides potential for a fruitful addition.
3. Green Bay Packers
The Packers, now without Preston Smith after his trade last season, could greatly benefit from adding another solid edge presence next to Rashan Gary and rookie Lukas Van Ness. With over $46 million available in 2025 cap space, a trade would allow them to address cornerback needs in free agency.
2. Chicago Bears
Having acquired Montez Sweat in 2023 at the cost of picks and salary, the Bears could benefit from bringing on another known edge-rushing talent. With a coaching staff that pushed for immediate results again, and considering new DC Dennis Allen’s work with Hendrickson in New Orleans, Chicago could make a play.
1. Washington Commanders
The Commanders have just brought in Deebo Samuel but only traded a fifth-round pick to boost their receiving corps. They also need a proven pass-rusher for Dan Quinn’s defense and are situated well financially, projected to have more than $60 million in salary cap space ahead of free agency. Securing Hendrickson would be an excellent way to boost their front line while contending for further playoff activities.
