In a significant offseason development, the Cincinnati Bengals have granted All-Pro defensive end Trey Hendrickson permission to seek a trade, a move that reflects the team’s evolving priorities. Hendrickson, who has established himself as one of the premier pass rushers in the league, expressed his gratitude for his four years in Cincinnati: “It’s been an honor and privilege to represent Cincinnati… I love this city and organization.” With a track record that includes leading the NFL in sacks and earning Pro Bowl selections every year for the past four seasons, it’s clear why he’s in high demand.
As Hendrickson prepares to hit free agency in 2026, the situation is about more than just a fresh contract; it stems from a financial predicament for the Bengals. With the team keen to lock down younger stars like Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, Hendrickson, at 30 years old, has emerged as a player they can no longer afford to keep at his current price. His impressive stats—over 17.5 sacks in 2023 and 2024, along with consistently high sack totals in four of his last five seasons—underscore his value.
For teams looking to bolster their defenses, Hendrickson represents a major opportunity on the trade market. One team that should seriously consider making a move is the Atlanta Falcons. After a rough showing in 2024, where the Falcons’ defense allowed an average of 24.9 points per game—ranking ninth highest in the league—adding a player of Hendrickson’s caliber could be a key step toward improvement.
The Falcons’ current defensive lineup could greatly benefit from Hendrickson’s experience and ability to disrupt opposing offenses. His presence would provide an invaluable upgrade over Grady Jarrett, who, at 31, struggled last season with just 2.5 sacks and hasn’t surpassed six sacks since 2019. Transitioning to Hendrickson would not only bolster their pass rush but also help rejuvenate a struggling defensive unit.
When it comes to a trade package for Hendrickson, something along the lines of the 46th overall pick in the second round coupled with the 244th overall pick in the seventh round would make sense. By securing Hendrickson, the Falcons would not only strengthen their defense but also set themselves up for a more competitive 2025 season. Pairing him with talented offensive players like Michael Penix Jr., Bijan Robinson, and Drake London could lay the groundwork for a playoff push.
As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on whether the Falcons make a serious bid to acquire Hendrickson. It’s a move that could define their upcoming season and reshape their defensive trajectory. If they play their cards right, the addition of Hendrickson could lead to significant gains that propel Atlanta into the playoff conversation.
