Cincinnati Bengals DE Trey Hendrickson Requests Trade
Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson has requested a trade from the team, seeking more security in his contract. Hendrickson, who has been a key player for the Bengals since joining in 2021, is set to make $14.8 million in 2024 and $15.8 million in 2025, but none of this money is guaranteed. His contract counts over $18 million against the Bengals’ salary cap for each of the next two years
Hendrickson’s request comes amidst an offseason where the Bengals have made several significant moves, including trading running back Joe Mixon to the Houston Texans. The Bengals had initially planned to release Mixon but managed to finalize a trade that benefited both teams.
If the Bengals were to trade Hendrickson before June 1, it would result in $7.8 million in dead money and $12.3 million in cap savings. A post-June 1 trade would decrease the dead money hit to $5.2 million and increase the cap savings to $15 million
#### Potential Destinations for Hendrickson
1. **New York Jets**: The Jets are looking to strengthen their defense and could benefit from Hendrickson’s pass-rushing abilities. With sufficient cap space, the Jets are a strong candidate.
2. **Seattle Seahawks**: The Seahawks need a boost in their defensive line, and Hendrickson’s skills would be a great fit for their scheme. Seattle’s cap management would allow them to absorb his contract.
3. **Detroit Lions**: As a team on the rise, the Lions could use Hendrickson’s veteran presence and defensive prowess. They have the cap flexibility to make this trade work.
4. **Las Vegas Raiders**: Pairing Hendrickson with Maxx Crosby could create a formidable pass-rushing duo for the Raiders, who are in dire need of defensive improvements. The Raiders would need to make some cap adjustments but are a potential suitor.
The Bengals face a critical decision: trading Hendrickson would provide substantial cap relief but would also create a gap in their defensive line. The team would need to consider obtaining draft picks or players who can contribute immediately to balance the roster impact
