The last few days have been a whirlwind for both the Las Vegas Raiders and Cincinnati Bengals, with significant developments involving their standout pass rushers.
On Wednesday, the Raiders locked in an extension with Maxx Crosby, securing him for the long haul. Just a day later, the Bengals made headlines by allowing Trey Hendrickson to explore trade options. Hendrickson has been vocal about his desire for an extension that would position him among the highest-paid defensive ends in the league. After Crosby’s impressive three-year, $106 million extension, Hendrickson’s asking price likely escalated to a number that Cincinnati isn’t keen on meeting.
As rumors swirl around potential landing spots for Hendrickson, the Chicago Bears and Washington Commanders emerge as frontrunners. However, one specific trade scenario between the Raiders and Bengals stands out as particularly plausible.
Trey Hendrickson Trade Breakdown
What the Raiders Get: Trey Hendrickson along with a two-year extension worth $64 million.
What the Bengals Receive: Michael Mayer, a tight end, and a 2025 third-round pick (68th overall) from the Raiders.
At first glance, this trade proposal ticks all the right boxes for both teams involved.
Raiders’ Financial Flexibility
Despite the Crosby extension, the Raiders find themselves in a favorable financial position with nearly $100 million in cap space. This comes on the heels of their decision to release quarterback Gardner Minshew, further simplifying their financial strategy. With Hendrickson’s $16 million deal already slated for this upcoming season, the Raiders can work to extend and restructure his contract, leveraging their ample cap space.
This strategic maneuvering grants the Raiders the capability to not only bring in Hendrickson but also pursue additional free agents, an essential move as they rebuild the franchise potentially around a rookie quarterback. Pairing Hendrickson with Crosby presents a formidable duo for their quest to disrupt quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes, Justin Herbert, and others.
Smart Compensation for Cincinnati
On the Bengals’ end, they enter this offseason once again in search of a tight end, particularly with Mike Gesicki hitting free agency. After cycling through short-term deals with players like Hayden Hurst and Irv Smith Jr. over the last few seasons, a fresh approach is in order.
Michael Mayer, drafted in the second round of 2023 by the Raiders, has been put on the trading block after the team selected Brock Bowers, who went on to rewrite rookie tight end records. Mayer, who is only 24 and still on a rookie contract for two more years, could fit perfectly into Cincinnati’s plans to solidify the tight end position.
While the Bengals may be aiming for a first or second-round pick for Hendrickson, this trade nets them a solid early third rounder in the upcoming draft. Considering Hendrickson will be 31 when the season kicks off, their leverage in trade negotiations could be limited. The 2025 draft is rumored to host an abundance of talent, particularly in the second and third rounds, making this deal more appealing.
A Homecoming for Mayer
For Mayer, this trade would be nothing short of a homecoming. Hailing from Independence, Kentucky, just across the river from Cincinnati, he has been a lifelong Bengals fan and had dreams of being drafted by the team during his time at Notre Dame. Reports suggest he was discontent with being picked by the Raiders and missed two games last season due to “personal matters.” A return to the Bengals would not only bring him closer to family, but the relationship he builds with the organization could help him settle in and thrive in a familiar environment.
This proposed trade encapsulates strategic thinking from both franchises, addressing immediate needs while setting the stage for future success. Fans have plenty to keep an eye on as these teams navigate the fascinating world of NFL trades.
