Trey Hendrickson, the NFL’s 2024 sack leader, has been given permission by the Cincinnati Bengals to seek a trade. This move comes as Hendrickson enters the final year of his contract, which is set to pay him $15.8 million in base salary and count $18.67 million against the Bengals’ salary cap.
Hendrickson has been a standout performer for the Bengals, earning Pro Bowl nods in each of his four seasons with the team and being named a First-Team All-Pro in 2024. He led the league with 17.5 sacks last season and has accumulated 57 sacks and 155 tackles during his time in Cincinnati.
The Bengals’ decision to allow Hendrickson to explore trade options is likely driven by their desire to prioritize extensions for wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. By trading Hendrickson, the Bengals would save $16 million against the cap, which could be used to help secure long-term deals for their young receivers.
Several teams are likely to be interested in acquiring Hendrickson’s services. He is considered one of the top edge rushers in the league, and his ability to pressure the quarterback would be a valuable asset to any team.
Hendrickson’s trade value is expected to be high, with some experts predicting that he could command a first-round draft pick in return. The Bengals are likely to seek a significant haul in exchange for Hendrickson’s services, given his value to the team and his potential impact on the league.
As the trade negotiations unfold, Hendrickson’s future with the Bengals remains uncertain. However, one thing is clear: he is a talented player who will be highly sought after by teams looking to bolster their pass rush.