Trey Hendrickson price tag might favor Lions more than anyone

With the return of Aidan Hutchinson, the Detroit Lions defense has a whole different feel to it going into the 2025 season. But, throughout the offseason, fans have still asked the question: are the Lions going to add another pass rusher?

This might seem like a far-out idea considering the Lions will need to pay Hutchinson on a long-term deal, but if Detroit wanted to load up and go after the likes of Trey Hendrickson, they might just have what it takes to do so.

The Athletic's Dianna Russini recently shared the Cincinnati Bengals' asking price for their star pass rusher, and it looks like something the Lions could easily put together: a 2026 first-round pick and a young defensive player.

That defensive player also doesn't have to be a pass rusher, Russini noted.

Could the Lions pull off a trade for Trey Hendrickson?

First of all, yes, the money would need to be worked out. The Lions would have to figure out how to pay Hendrickson on maybe a 3-year extension if they wanted this to make complete sense. Otherwise, he wouldn't agree to play on just a 1-year deal. Maybe, the Lions could get it done by giving him more money guaranteed in a single season.

But, it wouldn't necessarily be worth a one-year rental to give up that type of draft capital. So, let's say the Lions figure out how to give Hendrickson all the guarantees he wants on a three or four-year contract, while still being able to pay Hutchinson.

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In terms of a trade return for Cincinnati, the Lions would part with a first rounder, no problem. It'd be a late first, of course.

As for the player, the Lions have a couple of younger linebackers who might just do the trick. Detroit could try offering someone like Derrick Barnes, but if that wasn't good enough, then dangling Jack Campbell out there to be the Bengals' Germaine Pratt replacement might get it done.

Losing Campbell would hurt, but having a one-two punch of Hutchinson and Hendrickson would be well-worth the sacrifice.

Even then, if the Bengals wanted a cornerback, Detroit could offer up Amik Robertson. Essentially, it's dealer's choice. For the Lions to land Hendrickson, they could offer the Bengals' choice of a few different players alongside that first-round pick.

This idea might put the Lions above other potential suitors, because Cincy could get a few players they can pick from. Not every team would be willing to make that type of offer, but for Detroit? This year is Super Bowl or bust.

Again, this would be crazy. It isn't likely to happen. But, if the Lions wanted to create chaos and go all-in on this year, Hendrickson is the move.

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