Packers Eye Blockbuster Trade for Bengals' Star Trey Hendrickson to Bolster Defense

Published: May 17, 2025

The Green Bay Packers are reportedly considering a game-changing trade to acquire Cincinnati Bengals’ star edge rusher Trey Hendrickson, a move that could elevate their defense to elite status in the 2025 NFL season. According to Sporting News, the proposed deal would send 2023 first-round pick Lukas Van Ness and a third-round draft pick to Cincinnati, with the Bengals potentially pushing for a second-rounder.

Hendrickson, who led the NFL with 17.5 sacks in 2024 and amassed 35 sacks over the past two seasons, is a proven pass-rushing force. At 30, he’s expressed frustration with the Bengals over a lack of contract extension, making him a trade candidate as Cincinnati grapples with salary cap constraints tied to stars like Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase. The Bengals’ recent draft pick, edge rusher Shemar Stewart, could pave the way for a deal if negotiations falter.

For the Packers, pairing Hendrickson with Rashan Gary would create a formidable pass-rushing duo, addressing a key need after ranking eighth in sacks (45) in 2024. However, the trade comes with challenges: Hendrickson’s next contract could command up to $40 million annually, and Van Ness, despite underperforming, is a young asset Green Bay may hesitate to part with.

If executed, this blockbuster could transform the Packers’ defense, giving them a crucial edge against NFC rivals like the Detroit Lions and Philadelphia Eagles. As the 2025 season looms, all eyes are on Green Bay to see if they’ll pull the trigger on this high-stakes deal.