To probably no one’s surprise, ESPN latest reports imply that the Trey Hendrickson trade rumors are slowing back up again. According to Bleacher Report, the defensive end and the Bengals have not been in communication regarding a new deal. Hendrickson’s contract situation has been the highlight of this league, and it does not look like it’s going the way many Bengals fans are hoping. Originally selected in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft, after posting a record number of sacks was never enough for the team to extend him for a new deal, and many should expect him now to hold out.
This will make things even more complicated as the Bengals can’t afford to have any more distractions, so it shouldn’t be surprising, not if, but when Hendrickson lands in a new uniform. The organization has been reluctant to offer at least some type of positive signs that the defensive end is in their long-term plans, despite getting safety Geno Stone to take a pay cut. Many were believing this would be done to make room for Hendrickson, but it doesn’t look like that is the case, at least to keep Hendrickson on the roster. At this rate, the Bengals could have at least given Hendrickson a chance to speak, but it looks like that won’t happen, and these five teams should start ringing Cincinnati’s phone.
ESPN: “They Are No Longer Communicating” – NFL Sack Leader Trey Hendrickson Trade Could Come This Week
5 Logical Destinations
New Orleans Saints
Last season, the Saints had one of the worst defenses in the league. However, it didn’t stop New Orleans from re-signing Chase Young on a new deal. Cameron Jordan is aging and would benefit from the presence of Hendrickson, but the biggest implication is how it will work in their cap space. Despite that, general manager Mickey Loomis never fails to pinch more pennies to improve the team, and could do that with Hendrickson in a potential reunion.
Dallas Cowboys
Meanwhile, it’s a long shot, but the Dallas Cowboys should do the unthinkable move and trade for Trey Hendrickson. They’re still waiting to extend Micah Parsons, but if that falls through, many should expect Dallas to trade for a capable defender like Hendrickson. Despite signing Dante Fowler Jr this offseason, the Cowboys would be over atop all levels with the presence of the sack leader.
Washington Commanders
The Washington Commanders are also looking into bolstering their defensive trenches unit. Despite signing Dorance Armstrong and Bobby Wagner, it wasn’t enough to compensate for the ferocious offense the Commanders had this past year. They have to maximize Jayden Daniels’ contract, and they should do that by trading for Hendrickson.
Atlanta Falcons
However, the Falcons have been doing phenomenally well, adding defensive linemen to the unit. The team signed Morgan Fox to bolster their unit, but they need someone who’s going to take them to the next level. This means the Falcons trading for Hendrickson would change the organization of Atlanta forever.
Carolina Panthers
The same can be said about the Panthers this upcoming season after signing Tershawn Wharton to bolster the department. They might not be playoff contenders, but if they add Hendrickson in the mix with Derrick Brown, there’s a good chance that the Panthers could have a postseason run. Quarterback Bryce Young is on the hot seat, and the presence of Henderickson could help turn the ball over more often to give him more opportunities on the field.
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