The Philadelphia Eagles already boast one of the NFL’s most formidable rosters, but there’s always room for improvement. Adding a game-changing defensive end like All-Pro Trey Hendrickson could elevate their defense to new heights. Hendrickson, the reigning NFL sack leader with 17.5 sacks in 2024, is currently embroiled in a high-profile contract holdout with the Cincinnati Bengals. With tensions rising, a trade seems increasingly likely, and NFL.com’s Marc Ross has pegged Philadelphia as the ideal destination for the star pass rusher before the 2025 season kicks off.
Why Hendrickson to Philly Makes Sense
The Eagles showcased a relentless pass rush in their Super Bowl victory over the Chiefs, but their defensive front faces uncertainties heading into 2025. The loss of Josh Sweat, Nolan Smith’s injury, and the need for young players like Moro Ojomo (2023 seventh-round pick) and Jalyx Hunt (2024 third-rounder) to step up have left gaps. Ross argues that Eagles GM Howie Roseman, who struck gold with the 2022 trade for wide receiver A.J. Brown, could work similar magic by acquiring Hendrickson.
“Hendrickson, who’s in a contract standoff with the Bengals, could provide a similar effect for the defense,” Ross wrote on June 5. “Plus, the Eagles just cleared more cap space by dealing (Bryce) Huff. This would be a case of the rich getting richer — and a move I wouldn’t put past Philly.”
At 30 years old, Hendrickson remains a force. He matched his 2023 total of 17.5 sacks in 2024 and led all edge defenders with 83 total pressures, per PFF. His pass-rush grade of 90.4 ranked fifth among 211 defensive ends. Beyond stats, Hendrickson’s presence transforms defenses. Analyst Warren Sharp notes that without Hendrickson, the Bengals’ defense ranked last in pressure percentage, completion percentage allowed, success rate, and passer rating allowed over the past two seasons. With him, they were top 12 in each metric. That’s the definition of a difference-maker.
What Would a Trade Cost?
reading about how Trey Hendrickson is “extremely dug in”
he should be
with him not playing (off the field), Cincy’s pass D last 2 yrs:
#32 pressure %
#32 completion %
#32 success %
#32 passer ratingwith him on the field, Cincy’s def ranks TOP-12 in EVERY ONE OF THOSE STATS
— Warren Sharp (@SharpFootball) May 29, 2025
Hendrickson’s contract makes him an attractive target. He’s entering the final year of his deal with a $15.8 million base salary for 2025—below market value for elite edge rushers. While he’ll likely demand a raise and extension, Roseman’s cap wizardry could make it work. But what about draft compensation? Here’s a proposed trade:
Philadelphia Eagles receive: DE Trey Hendrickson
Cincinnati Bengals receive: 2026 second-round pick, 2026 fourth-round pick
A future second-rounder and a fourth-rounder could be enough to pry Hendrickson from Cincinnati. Given his age, a first-round pick is unlikely, making this a fair deal for a player of his caliber.
Hendrickson’s Track Record
Since entering the NFL in 2017, Hendrickson has racked up 77 sacks, with an astounding 53.0 since 2020, ranking third league-wide in that span. His ability to consistently pressure quarterbacks would be a massive boost for an Eagles defense aiming to maintain its dominance.
Is It Worth It?
There’s no question Hendrickson’s addition would make the Eagles’ pass rush more fearsome. The real debate is whether Roseman views him as worth the draft capital and future contract costs. If the Eagles want to keep their Super Bowl window wide open, landing a 77-sack monster like Hendrickson could be the move that seals their status as NFL juggernauts.