The New England Patriots could add another key piece to their defense in a recently proposed trade idea for Trey Hendrickson, the Cincinnati Bengals' all‑pro defensive end.
According to Jordy McElroy of Patriots Wire, the Patriots could address a major need on defense with the disgruntled pass rusher.
"The Cincinnati Bengals and Trey Hendrickson have resumed contract talks, but that doesn't mean the two sides will get a deal done," McElroy said.
Hendrickson, who led the NFL with 17.5 sacks and earned First‑Team All‑Pro honors in 2024, is entering the final year of his contract and has made it clear he won’t play under his current deal. With more than $60 million in cap space, the Patriots are considered one of the few teams that could pull off the trade and still be able to offer him a new contract.
New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel speaks to the media during a press conference at Gillette Stadium.
New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel speaks to the media during a press conference at Gillette Stadium.
© Eric Canha-Imagn Images
One major obstacle to a new contract for Cincinnati, however, has been the amount of money the organization spent on its offense.
"The Bengals devoted a bunch of money to keeping their offensive trio of Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins intact," McElroy said.
For reference, the Cleveland Browns are paying Myles Garrett an annual salary of $40 million. That is the highest-paid defensive player in the NFL, and with league-leading production, Hendrickson could be looking for the same kind of deal.
That puts Cincinnati in a tough spot. With almost $32 million of cap space, the Bengals' hand may be forced, and finding a potential suitor like New England could be their only choice.