Lions Identified as Potential Landing Spot for $21M All-Pro Edge Rusher Amid Trade Chatter

The Detroit Lions may still be in the mix for a top-tier edge rusher despite missing out earlier in the offseason. While several star pass rushers signed with other teams or secured large extensions, one notable name remains in trade discussions: Trey Hendrickson of the Cincinnati Bengals.

Hendrickson has yet to finalize a new deal with the Bengals, keeping his name in the spotlight as a possible trade candidate. Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report recently suggested the Lions could be a strong contender to acquire him following the NFL Draft.

For Detroit fans eager for a major defensive addition, Hendrickson would be a dream fit. He’s been one of the league’s most dominant pass rushers, recording 17.5 sacks in each of the past two seasons. His performance in 2024 earned him All-Pro honors and a runner-up finish in Defensive Player of the Year voting. According to Pro Football Focus, he led all edge defenders with 83 pressures last season.

However, acquiring Hendrickson wouldn’t come cheap. He’s due $21 million in the final year of his contract, carrying an $18.7 million cap hit, and is reportedly seeking a lucrative extension. With stars like Maxx Crosby and Myles Garrett recently signing massive deals worth $35.5 million and $40 million annually, Hendrickson is expected to command a similar figure.

The Lions were reportedly unable to afford Za’Darius Smith earlier in the offseason, raising doubts about their ability to fit Hendrickson’s contract under the salary cap. Still, if Detroit views Hendrickson as a game-changer capable of pushing them toward a Super Bowl run, they might be tempted to make a bold move—though it remains a long sho