The Detroit Lions have less than a week to get some help via trade. With the trade deadline set for November 5, time is running out.
Many expect the Lions to make a decision, but the scope and magnitude of that decision remains to be seen.
One target that could be in play for the Lions is defensive end Trey Hendrickson, who is seen as a potential piece that could be moved after the Cincinnati Bengals’ 3-5 start to the season.
Hendrickson has played a big role in the Bengals’ pass rush over the past few seasons. He arrived in Cincinnati in 2021 after starting his career with four seasons in New Orleans. The defender has had double-digit sacks in three of the last four seasons, with the lone exception being the 2022 campaign in which he had eight sacks.
He was originally drafted by the Saints in the third round of the 2017 draft, coinciding with the tenures of Dan Campbell and Aaron Glenn on Sean Payton’s coaching staff. As a result, the Lions head coach and defensive coordinator are familiar with the talented Edge Rusher.
This connection, coupled with Hendrickson’s relentless playing style, makes for a perfect duo. NFL.com Kevin Patra This is what we saw in a recent article predicting ideal trade deals.
“If Raiders star passer Maxx Crosby is truly off the table, the Lions should chase Hendrickson,” Patra wrote. “Detroit likely has institutional knowledge of the player, given that head coach Dan Campbell and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn were both on New Orleans’ staff during Hendrickson’s time with the Saints (2017-2020). ).He plays with the Campbell engine type. “He loves it and would fit in the locker room. With seven sacks and 36 QB pressures so far this season, Hendrickson has continued to be a weapon at the edge.”
MORE: Two leading Lions trade candidates emerge
Hendrickson is under contract through the end of next season, so the extra year of team control could drive up the asking price. If acquired, the Lions would have to prorate his $14.8 million salary this year and the $15.8 million salary he is owed next season.
The veteran defenseman also carries a cap hit of $18,666,668 next season, which would further involve the Lions granting multiple long-term extensions over the past calendar year.
Due to the value placed on premium edge rushers, the Lions may have to deal out multiple draft picks or potentially a player in order to acquire Hendrickson. The asking price could also be impacted by the outcome of the Bengals’ game against the Las Vegas Raiders next weekend.
However, Hendrickson would immediately be the Lions’ best option on the active roster this year, and a potential duo of him and Hutchinson next year would put the team among the best in the league in terms of upside pairings.
If the asking price is right, this is a trade the Lions should absolutely make. This would give them an immediate boost and one of the best upside pairs in the league in 2025.
