If you’re a Lions fan holding out hope for a big splash at edge rusher — specifically Trey Hendrickson — it might be time to let that dream go.
The Cincinnati Bengals star pass rusher has made it known he won’t play the 2025 season under his current contract, and rumors have been swirling all offseason about a possible trade. Detroit has been a fan-favorite landing spot, especially with the Lions needing help on the edge opposite Aidan Hutchinson.
But according to Detroit Free Press insider Dave Birkett, there’s no real indication the Lions are interested. In fact, everything points in the other direction.
Hendrickson is reportedly looking for a deal in the range of $35 million per year — numbers that don’t exactly fit with the Lions’ current cap strategy. Remember, general manager Brad Holmes already said the team couldn’t afford to bring back Za’Darius Smith. If Smith was out of reach, Hendrickson is even more unlikely.
It’s a shame, because the idea of pairing Hutchinson with a guy who’s posted back-to-back seasons of 17.5 sacks and led his position in pressures last year is a scary-good scenario. That kind of pass rush might’ve been the final piece for a Lions team that already boasts the NFL’s top offense.
But for now, Detroit seems to be playing it smart and financially cautious. Fans will have to wait and see if a more affordable move is on the way.
Dream Over? Lions Show No Signs of Pursuing Trey Hendrickson
