Raiders considered ‘frontrunners’ to land huge trade target

The Las Vegas Raiders could be on the verge of swinging one more massive move before the regular season begins.

Last week, Cincinnati Bengals edge rusher and 2024 sack leader Trey Hendrickson officially requested a trade from the team, with contract extension talks breaking down. While there is risk attached due to Hendrickson’s age, the prospect of adding a pass rusher with a recent track record of elite play is enticing. Several teams already have confirmed interest, while analysts believe it is only a matter of time until others get involved as well.

If recent rumors are to be believed, however, not only are the Raiders expected to get involved, but they have the best chance to get a deal over the finish line.

A Raiders insider has given fans exciting news about a potential Hendrickson deal.

According to Sports Illustrated’s Hondo Carpenter, an anonymous NFL executive has suggested that the Raiders would be the frontrunners of any Hendrickson trade if they choose to make an offer.

“I have no doubt the Raiders are the frontrunners. Tom Brady and Mark Davis want to win now, and John (Spytek) has no fear when it comes to making bold moves. The kid (Hendrickson is 30), that move is the mentality of Pete Carroll; he’s not afraid of anything that could improve the team,” said the executive, per Carpenter.

“When I inquired about the potential cost of acquiring Hendrickson, the executive said, “From what I hear, the Bengals are seeking either multiple picks or a combination of a pick and a player. They aren’t particularly focused on one side of the ball, but their offense is exceptional, while their defense is (excrement). I would speculate that a player and a third-round pick would be sufficient to land him.”

The idea of Hendrickson heading over to Las Vegas for a hypothetical package of Malcolm Koonce and a third-round pick feels low, but it stands as a great deal if the Bengals decide to take it.

From the Raiders’ perspective, Hendrickson makes plenty of sense to bring in. The presence of Pete Carroll suggests that the team is interested in competing now, and a duo of Hendrickson and Maxx Crosby is a strong start to that goal. Meanwhile, the team’s current salary cap situation means they can handle the extension that Hendrickson wants.

A deal is probably not going to come together overnight, but the Raiders should at least put their best offer forward and see if it is feasible.