Trey Hendrickson Trade Rumors: Bengals Defensive End Linked to Colts, Bills, and Lions
By Jason Bolton June 08, 2025 12:42
As the 2025 NFL trade deadline approaches, Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson remains at the center of intense trade speculation. The 30-year-old pass rusher, who led the NFL with 17.5 sacks in 2024 and earned All-Pro honors, has publicly stated he will not play under his current contract, heightening the urgency around his future. With contract talks stalled and the Bengals granting Hendrickson permission to seek a trade, multiple teams including the Indianapolis Colts, Buffalo Bills, and Detroit Lions have emerged as potential suitors.
Contract Standoff and Trade Permission
Hendrickson’s contract situation has been a sticking point for three consecutive offseasons. After signing a one-year extension in 2023, he sought a lucrative long-term deal last spring but was rebuffed, leading to a trade request that went unanswered. This offseason, the Bengals allowed Hendrickson to explore trade options, signaling a shift in their stance, though they have set a high asking price.
Currently, Hendrickson is due $16 million in 2025 under his short-term deal, but he is seeking a contract in the $35 million-per-year range, comparable to top-tier edge rushers like Danielle Hunter and Maxx Crosby. NFL insider Albert Breer noted, “Hendrickson did have 35 sacks the past two years, so he’s more than within reason to expect to get where Hunter and Crosby did this offseason, somewhere around $35 million per year. The Bengals haven’t gone there yet”.
Despite the stalemate, Hendrickson remains a dominant force. Last season, he accounted for nearly half of the Bengals’ sacks, a critical contribution for a defense that struggled overall. His absence would be a significant blow to Cincinnati’s playoff hopes.
Trade Interest: Colts, Bills, and Lions
Among the teams linked to Hendrickson, the Indianapolis Colts stand out as a logical fit. The Colts’ defense has lacked consistent pass rush, and Hendrickson’s ability to pressure quarterbacks would immediately upgrade their front. The Colts have the cap space and draft capital to make a competitive offer, potentially involving mid-round picks and young players.
The Buffalo Bills, aiming to bolster their defensive line ahead of a Super Bowl push, have also expressed interest. Hendrickson’s experience and production would complement the Bills’ aggressive defensive scheme. Given Buffalo’s willingness to invest in defensive talent, they could be a strong contender to acquire him.
The Detroit Lions have reportedly surfaced as a surprise suitor as well. According to NFL insiders, the Lions could offer a package including a 2026 second-round pick and a 2027 pick swap in exchange for Hendrickson and a 2026 fifth-round pick. Detroit’s emerging defense would benefit from adding a proven edge rusher, and their cap flexibility allows them to absorb Hendrickson’s contract demands.
Challenges and Outlook
While trade interest is high, the Bengals’ asking price remains a hurdle. Cincinnati’s front office values Hendrickson as a cornerstone of their defense and is reluctant to part with him without receiving a significant return. ESPN analysts have pointed out that trade proposals involving only draft picks have been largely rejected, as the Bengals prefer to receive a quality pass rusher or multiple high-value assets in return.
Hendrickson’s firm stance he has stated he will not play under his current contract and has skipped voluntary workouts adds pressure on the Bengals to either reach a new deal or finalize a trade before the season begins. However, the situation could drag into the regular season if no agreement is reached.
Trey Hendrickson’s trade saga is one of the most compelling NFL stories of 2025. As a premier pass rusher with a significant contract dispute, he has attracted interest from the Colts, Bills, Lions, and potentially other contenders. The Bengals face a difficult decision: retain a disgruntled star or capitalize on his value to accelerate their roster rebuild.
With negotiations ongoing and the trade deadline approaching, all eyes will be on Cincinnati’s front office to see if they can strike a deal that satisfies both the team’s competitive ambitions and Hendrickson’s contract demands. For teams in need of an elite edge rusher, Hendrickson represents a rare opportunity if they can meet the Bengals’ price.
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