Report: Lions Named Top Contender for Bengals’ $21M Sack Machine

The Detroit Lions are once again being linked to one of the NFL’s top pass rushers — All-Pro Trey Hendrickson of the Cincinnati Bengals.

According to Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox, Hendrickson remains a prime post-draft trade candidate, and the Lions have been named as a potential landing spot. Lions fans have been eager to see the team add another elite edge rusher, and Hendrickson certainly fits the bill. He’s coming off two dominant seasons, notching 17.5 sacks each year, earning Pro Bowl honors, All-Pro recognition, and finishing second in Defensive Player of the Year voting in 2024.

The catch? Hendrickson isn’t cheap. He’s on the final year of his deal, set to make $21 million with an $18.7 million cap hit — and he’s seeking a massive extension, likely in the range of Maxx Crosby’s $35.5 million per year or Myles Garrett’s $40 million per year.

While Detroit missed out on signing Za’Darius Smith this offseason, it’s unclear if they’re ready or willing to make the financial leap for Hendrickson. As tempting as the move sounds, it may ultimately prove too costly. Still, the idea of adding Hendrickson as the Lions chase their first Super Bowl title has fans dreaming big.

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