Earlier this offseason, Hendrickson requested a trade after contract negotiations stalled, leading him to skip minicamp and part of training camp before returning to the team. With the Bengals reportedly unwilling to meet his contract demands, NFL insiders have indicated that the franchise is now open to trade offers for the 30-year-old pass rusher.
According to Sports Illustrated’s Karl Rasmussen, at least three teams have shown interest in acquiring Hendrickson: the Indianapolis Colts, the Carolina Panthers, and the Cleveland Browns. However, a trade within the AFC North to the Browns is considered unlikely due to the divisional rivalry. The Bengals are said to be seeking a significant return, including an impact player and a high-value draft pick.
Potential landing spots for Hendrickson include teams in need of a proven edge rusher. The Panthers, who finished last in pass rush metrics last season, the Colts, and even the Green Bay Packers and Detroit Lions have been mentioned as logical destinations. Each of these teams has both the cap space and the need for a veteran defensive presence.
Hendrickson, who began his career with the New Orleans Saints after being selected in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft, has played 110 games, recording 77 career sacks. Despite never winning a Super Bowl, he remains one of the league’s most productive edge rushers.
As the regular season nears, Hendrickson’s future with the Bengals remains uncertain. Unless a new contract is reached, a trade could reshape the defensive landscape for both Cincinnati and any team acquiring his services.
For more details on Trey Hendrickson’s stats and career, visit his Pro Football Reference page or follow him on Instagram.