With the 2024 NFL Draft as close as it can get, there’s still no shortage of surprising news. Most recently, Cincinnati Bengals Pro Bowl defensive end Trey Hendrickson reportedly requested a trade, looking for more long-term security than what he’s making and has been offered.
What are some potential landing spots?
Trey Hendrickson’s Landing Spots
On the eve of the 2024 NFL Draft, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that Hendrickson requested to be traded from Cincinnati.
Hendrickson is set to make $15 million in 2024, but he wants more long-term security than what the team is offering, leading to his trade request.
SEE MORE: Podcast — Predicting the Bengals’ 2024 NFL Draft Board
Hendrickson was a third-round pick in the 2017 NFL Draft by the New Orleans Saints. He’s since become a first-team All-Pro in 2023 and a three-time Pro Bowler.
Hendrickson has made 174 career tackles, 59.5 sacks, 12 forced fumbles, and nine pass deflections.
Atlanta Falcons
One of the top teams that should be interested in Hendrickson’s services is the Atlanta Falcons, who had to play against him twice a year from 2017-20.
The Falcons have suffered from a lack of pass rush for years and look to improve that this offseason.
With their focus likely on the draft, potentially taking an EDGE then, the Falcons could redirect their attention to a proven commodity in Hendrickson.
Atlanta has eight picks in the 2024 NFL Draft it could trade, including two third-rounders, one second-rounder, and the eighth overall pick.
Chicago Bears
Similar to the Falcons, the Chicago Bears have suffered from a struggling pass rush.
In 2023, the Bears had just 30 team sacks, good for second-worst in the NFL. They did trade for Montez Sweat midway through 2023, which helps, but they still need another piece.
Currently holding two first-round picks, including the ninth-overall pick, the Bears have the capital to make a move and are already likely to take a pass rusher in the draft.
Instead, the Bears could trade for Hendrickson and put together a duo of him and Sweat that solidifies the edges of their defense.
Arizona Cardinals
Another team that has a big need at defensive end is the Arizona Cardinals. In 2023, the Cardinals had 33 sacks, the third-worst mark in the NFL.
Going into 2024, Arizona’s current starting defensive ends are Bilal Nichols and Justin Jones, while the team’s outside linebackers are Zaven Collins and Dennis Gardeck.
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As a result, the Cardinals need some help.
If there was anyone with the perfect capital to trade for Hendrickson, it might be the Cardinals.
They hold two first-round picks, including the fourth overall pick and the 27th overall pick. They also have the 35th overall pick in the second round.
If they wanted to make the splash move, the Cardinals definitely have the tools.
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