Trey Hendrickson’s relationship with the Cincinnati Bengals has reportedly soured, and all signs now point toward a potential departure. Despite back-to-back 17.5-sack seasons and four Pro Bowl selections, the veteran edge rusher remains without a contract extension — or even communication — from team leadership.
Top Trey Hendrickson Trade Destinations
Speaking to ESPN, Hendrickson said the Bengals haven’t contacted him since April’s NFL Draft. He claims the team went back on its word to renegotiate his deal.
Trey Hendrickson statement today to ESPN: “No communication has taken place between my camp and the organization post draft. The offers prior to the draft did not reflect the vision we shared and were promised last offseason if I continued to play at a high level. Coaches are… pic.twitter.com/2MKBL60ATg
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter)
“No communication has taken place between my camp and the organization post draft. The offers prior to the draft did not reflect the vision we shared and were promised last offseason if I continued to play at a high level. Coaches are aware of these past conversations.
“Rather than using collaboration to get us to a point to bring me home to the team, THEY are no longer communicating. I have been eagerly awaiting a resolution of this situation, but that’s hard to do when there is no discussion and an evident lack of interest in reaching mutual goals.”
Entering the final year of his contract, Hendrickson is owed more than $18 million in 2025. At age 30, he’s still one of the NFL‘s most disruptive pass rushers and should draw serious trade interest.
The Bengals previously granted Hendrickson permission to seek a trade, keeping the door open for suitors. With his production, leadership, and experience, Hendrickson could boost the playoff hopes of several contenders. Here are three teams that make the most sense.
Detroit Lions
Cap Space: $40+ Millon | Perfect Fit Opposite Aidan Hutchinson
The Detroit Lions are legitimate Super Bowl contenders, but still need depth at edge rusher. After parting ways with Za’Darius Smith, the team hasn’t addressed the hole left in its pass rush.
Detroit’s 2025 draft focused mostly on offense, leaving the defense short on new help. Hendrickson would pair well with young star Aidan Hutchinson, and with over $40 million in cap space, the Lions more than enough room to absorb his deal.
Green Bay Packers
Cap Space: $31+ Million | Defense Needs a Proven Finisher
The Green Bay Packers need a proven pass rusher to complement Rashan Gary. The depth behind him is thin, and Hendrickson’s consistency could be just what this defense needs to keep pace in a tough NFC North.
With more than $31 million in cap space, the Packers have room to take on Hendrickson’s salary. After loading up on offense in the draft, this would be a smart move to balance the roster.
Indianapolis Colts
Reunited With Lou Anarumo | Strong Pass-Rush Need
The Indianapolis Colts finished 25th in sacks last season and haven’t shown they can consistently get after the quarterback. They hired Lou Anarumo — who oversaw Hendrickson’s best years in Cincinnati — as defensive coordinator this offseason. That familiarity makes a reunion especially interesting.
With Kwity Paye and sophomore Laiatu Latu already in place, adding Hendrickson would round out a dangerous trio. Indianapolis also needs veteran leadership on defense, and Hendrickson could be the missing piece.
Hendrickson’s production, consistency, and locker room presence make him a valuable piece for any team with championship goals. If the Bengals don’t make a real push to re-engage him, other teams like Detroit, Green Bay, and Indianapolis are well-positioned to make an offer. These teams have cap space, a need at edge rusher, and rosters ready to compete.
The clock is ticking, and if Cincinnati can’t fix this, one of these contenders might land one of the NFL’s most productive pass rushers.