The Detroit Lions could be on the verge of making a major defensive move this offseason, with NFL insider Jonathan Jones suggesting that acquiring Trey Hendrickson from the Cincinnati Bengals could be a “no-brainer” decision for Detroit. The Bengals have reportedly given Hendrickson permission to seek a trade, and if the cost is as low as a third-round pick, it would be an incredibly cost-effective way for the Lions to bolster their pass rush.
Hendrickson, who led the NFL with 17.5 sacks in 2024, would provide the Lions with a top-tier edge rusher alongside Aidan Hutchinson, forming a potentially dominant pass-rush duo. At 30 years old, Hendrickson fits into Detroit’s win-now strategy perfectly. If the Lions could secure him for a third-round pick and lock him into a short-term contract extension, it would be a savvy move to maximize their championship window without breaking the bank.
While top-tier options like Myles Garrett and Harold Landry are no longer on the table, Hendrickson’s relatively affordable trade price makes him a prime candidate for the Lions to target. With a manageable cost and the potential to immediately upgrade their defense, Detroit should waste no time reaching out to the Bengals. This move could represent one of the most impactful and cost-effective decisions the Lions make this offseason.
Lions in the Running for Trey Hendrickson: Cost Could Be a Steal
