The NFL trade deadline is heating up, and a blockbuster deal could be on the horizon as four NFC powerhouses—the Dallas Cowboys, Philadelphia Eagles, Detroit Lions, and Washington Commanders—are reportedly gearing up for a fierce bidding war to land Cincinnati Bengals’ star edge rusher Trey Hendrickson. With a jaw-dropping 35 sacks over the past two seasons, the 30-year-old, four-time Pro Bowler is the hottest name on the market, and his potential availability could reshape the NFC playoff race in 2025.
Why Hendrickson Is the Ultimate Prize
Hendrickson isn’t just another pass rusher—he’s a game-changer. Leading the NFL in sacks over the last two years, he’s proven himself as an elite force off the edge. Currently on a revised $29 million contract with the Bengals, Hendrickson is set to hit free agency in 2026, making him a prime trade candidate if Cincinnati’s season continues to spiral. With the Bengals reeling from quarterback Joe Burrow’s injury—expected to keep him out until at least mid-December—and lackluster performances from backups Jake Browning and 40-year-old Joe Flacco, the team’s playoff hopes are fading fast. If Cincinnati becomes a seller at the deadline, Hendrickson could be the centerpiece of a fire sale.
NFL Spin Zone’s Sayre Bedinger believes Hendrickson’s availability is a no-brainer for the Bengals. “If the season is lost for the Bengals, nobody on their roster makes more sense to be traded than Hendrickson,” Bedinger wrote. “The star pass rusher is past the age of 30 and is a free agent after this season. The Bengals could get better value from an in-season trade than via compensatory pick, and teams would be lined up to make an offer if he’s made available.”
Hendrickson’s frustration with the Bengals is no secret. After failed contract extension talks this offseason, the edge rusher made his discontent clear, and a trade could be the clean break both sides need. With the Bengals potentially facing a lost season, cashing in on their star now could yield a massive return in draft capital or players. But which of the NFC’s “Big 4” is most likely to land him?
Eagles: Desperate for a Pass-Rush Spark
The Philadelphia Eagles, with legitimate Super Bowl aspirations in 2025, are starving for edge-rushing firepower. Despite their talent-laden roster, the Eagles have managed just nine sacks through five games—a glaring weakness for a team with championship ambitions. General Manager Howie Roseman is known for his bold, aggressive moves, and a blockbuster trade for Hendrickson feels like a perfect fit. Adding a proven sack machine to complement their defensive front could elevate Philly’s defense to elite status, making them the odds-on favorite to pursue this deal with full force.
Lions: A Missed Opportunity or a Game-Changing Move?
The Detroit Lions, another Super Bowl contender, are a curious case. Ranking in the top five in sacks, their pass rush is already formidable, led by star Aidan Hutchinson. However, depth is a concern, especially with Marcus Davenport sidelined by injury (again) and Al-Quadin Muhammad starting opposite Hutchinson. While GM Brad Holmes has been oddly hesitant to bolster his edge-rushing group this season, the chance to pair Hendrickson with Hutchinson could create a nightmare duo for opposing quarterbacks. Will Holmes finally pull the trigger, or will Detroit’s reluctance cost them a golden opportunity?
Commanders: All-In for 2025 Glory
The Washington Commanders are all-in on 2025, and their aggressive approach under GM Adam Peters makes them a serious contender in the Hendrickson sweepstakes. Also ranking in the top five in sacks, Washington’s pass rush is already stout, but as Bedinger noted, “there’s no such thing as too much pass-rush help in today’s NFL.” Adding Hendrickson to an already talented roster could solidify the Commanders as a legitimate Super Bowl threat, and Peters’ willingness to make bold moves suggests Washington won’t shy away from this fight.
Cowboys: A Splash to Save Face
The Dallas Cowboys are in a precarious position. Reeling from the controversial trade of superstar Micah Parsons, their defense has been exposed, ranking as the fourth-worst scoring defense in the NFL. While they managed five sacks in a single game against the woeful New York Jets, their overall pass rush has been lackluster, with just 10 sacks through five weeks. Owner Jerry Jones, under fire for the Parsons trade, desperately needs a win in the court of public opinion. With ample draft capital and newfound cap space from Parsons’ departure, Dallas has the means to not only land Hendrickson but also extend his contract. A splashy move for the Bengals’ star could be just what Jones needs to quiet the critics and keep the Cowboys competitive.
As the trade deadline looms, the race for Trey Hendrickson is shaping up to be one of the most electrifying storylines of the 2025 NFL season. The Eagles’ desperation, the Lions’ potential, the Commanders’ ambition, and the Cowboys’ redemption arc all point to a bidding war that could shake up the NFC. Whichever team lands Hendrickson will gain a proven difference-maker capable of turning games—and seasons—on their head. With 35 sacks in two years and a chip on his shoulder, Hendrickson is the ultimate prize in a league where pass-rush dominance reigns supreme. Buckle up—this is going to be a wild ride.