The Philadelphia Eagles remain on a high after their dominant Super Bowl victory, but the team faces significant roster changes as they attempt to defend their title.
Key players, including edge rusher Josh Sweat, have moved on, leaving a noticeable gap in their defensive line.
However, most believe the Eagles will remain contenders in 2025, especially if they make the right moves during the upcoming NFL Draft.
Speaking of the draft, Jeff Kerr of CBS Sports published an article proposing that the Eagles could make a bold move by trading their first-round pick to the Cincinnati Bengals for star edge rusher Trey Hendrickson.
This trade, Kerr suggests, could be the key to winning back-to-back Super Bowls and blossoming into a potential dynasty.
“Hendrickson is the edge rusher the Eagles need to compete for a Super Bowl in 2025, especially considering what Philadelphia currently has at the position,” Kerr added.
“Nolan Smith is the only proven edge rusher in the group, as the Eagles are banking on Jalyx Hunt, Josh Uche, Azeez Ojulari, and Bryce Huff to significantly contribute to getting to the quarterback next season. Even if Hunt takes the next step, the Eagles still don’t have a lot of depth at the position.”
While trading a first-round pick for Hendrickson might seem like a steep cost, it may be the price required to acquire such a talented player.
Despite the potential cost, Kerr believes the trade would be well worth it for the Eagles. After all, superstar pass rushers in their prime don’t just grow on trees.
Hendrickson is coming off back-to-back seasons with 17.5 sacks, a feat that hasn’t been matched since J.J. Watt did it in 2014-15.
His pass-rushing ability would be a huge boost for the Eagles’ defense, which is otherwise relying on relatively unproven players at the edge rusher position.
However, the real challenge for the Eagles lies in their ability to afford Hendrickson, should they trade for him.
In addition to giving up their first-round pick, the Eagles would also need to negotiate a hefty contract extension for the 30-year-old.
Philadelphia’s current salary cap situation is relatively healthy, with approximately $22.5 million in space heading into next week’s draft.
But signing Hendrickson to a new deal, while also addressing their rookie class and leaving room for in-season moves, could be a financial stretch.
Even with some contract restructures, making room for Hendrickson might not be feasible. But if any front office can figure out a way, it’s the Eagles.
What are your thoughts on the rumors that the Eagles could soon be making a trade for Hendrickson???
