Bengals predicted to trade Trey Hendrickson to NFC Super Bowl contender to end contract dispute

The Cincinnati Bengals' contract negotiation saga with star edge rusher Trey Hendrickson seems like it may never end.

They have one easier way out, though. They could trade him.

That's what Bleacher Report predicts: They project that Hendrickson will get traded to the Detroit Lions.

Here's how B/R's Moe Moton spells it out:

According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, the Cincinnati Bengals resumed contract talks with Trey Hendrickson after the team wrapped up mandatory minicamp in June.

 

NFL Network's Tom Pelissero appeared on The Rich Eisen Show and said Hendrickson isn't looking to reset the edge-rusher market on an extension, but his demand could change.

Following his first All-Pro season as the league leader in sacks, Hendrickson can push for at least $30 million annually on a new deal, which would make him one of the top-five highest-paid players at the position in terms of average annual salary.

The Bengals may not feel comfortable paying a 30-year-old edge-rusher entering his age-31 season that amount of money on a multiyear deal. At the right price, they would likely entertain trade proposals.

The Detroit Lions should offer a 2026 second-rounder and a 2026 fifth-rounder to go all-in on an attempt to make a deep playoff run after an early exit last season.

Aidan Hutchinson is cleared to participate in football activities, but Detroit needs a reliable pass-rusher opposite him on the defensive line.

Marcus Davenport has struggled with injuries throughout his seven-year career. He's missed 28 games over the last two seasons. Al-Quadin Muhammad has been mostly a backup for eight campaigns. Josh Paschal, a 2022 second-rounder, is going into a contract year without much pass-rushing production on his resume.

As Super Bowl contenders, the Lions should be aggressive in filling a glaring roster need.

Hendrickson is currently set to play the 2025 season for $16 million. He has made clear he doesn't want to do that.

He's a superstar, coming off back-to-back seasons with 17.5 sacks.

He's also crucial to the Bengals. Their defense isn't good enough to live up to the level that an offense led by Joe Burrow and Ja'Marr Chase deserves.

In reality, Cincinnati can't really afford to lose Hendrickson. But it also seems like they don't think they can afford to pay him.

The Lions have a chance to be big beneficiaries here.