In a shocking move, the Buffalo Bills are reportedly making a full-throttle effort to acquire Cincinnati Bengals’ star defensive player, Trey Hendrickson, in a trade that could reshape the NFL landscape for the 2025 season. According to Sporting News, the Bills are considering a bold trade proposal to bring in the $62 million edge rusher, aiming to bolster their chances of capturing a Super Bowl title.
Trey Hendrickson – The Bengals’ Defensive “Monster”
Trey Hendrickson, 30, is one of the NFL’s premier edge rushers. In the 2024 season, he led the league with 17.5 sacks and earned a spot on the Associated Press All-Pro team, alongside four consecutive Pro Bowl selections. With a staggering 35 sacks over the past two seasons, Hendrickson is a nightmare for opposing offenses. However, contract disputes with the Bengals have cast uncertainty over his future in Cincinnati.
Per Sporting News, Hendrickson rejected a $28 million-per-year extension from the Bengals, seeking a higher salary, potentially in the $35-40 million range annually. Lack of communication from Bengals’ management and Hendrickson’s public frustration have opened the door for other teams, with the Buffalo Bills emerging as the frontrunner.
The Bengals have made it clear they don’t want to give away Hendrickson, so I’m not even sure the Bills’ (likely late) second-rounder would be enough. But if the Bengals’ demands drop, I could see Buffalo pouncing to secure the veteran edge rusher it needs to take down Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes in the playoffs.
Bills’ Trade Proposal
Sources indicate that the Bills are prepared to offer edge rusher A.J. Epenesa—currently in the final year of his contract—along with draft picks to secure Hendrickson. While Epenesa isn’t on the same level as Hendrickson, he could serve as a viable replacement for the Bengals if they decide to part ways with their defensive cornerstone. The biggest hurdle for the Bills is the financial aspect. Hendrickson has one year left on his contract at $15 million for 2025 and is seeking a long-term deal with a significantly higher salary.
The Bengals have made it clear they don’t want to give away Hendrickson, so I’m not even sure the Bills’ (likely late) second-rounder would be enough. But if the Bengals’ demands drop, I could see Buffalo pouncing to secure the veteran edge rusher it needs to take down Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes in the playoffs.
Why Are the Bills “Desperately” Targeting Hendrickson?
Despite being one of the AFC’s top teams in recent years, the Buffalo Bills have yet to break through to the Super Bowl. With a potent offense led by quarterback Josh Allen, the Bills see strengthening their defense as the key to competing with powerhouses like the Kansas City Chiefs. Adding a player like Hendrickson, who consistently pressures opposing quarterbacks, would significantly elevate their defensive prowess, especially in high-stakes playoff games.
Moreover, the Bills’ recent moves to reshape their edge rusher position signal their commitment to building a formidable defense. Hendrickson, with his experience and peak performance, is seen as the perfect piece to bring the Bills closer to a championship.
Impact on the Bengals
If this trade materializes, the Bengals will face a significant void in their defense. Despite drafting young talent like Shemar Stewart in 2025, losing Hendrickson—a linchpin in their defensive scheme—could severely hamper their ambitions. Having missed the playoffs for two consecutive seasons, the Bengals are already juggling the financial demands of retaining stars like Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins, which may force tough decisions regarding Hendrickson’s future.
Conclusion
The Buffalo Bills’ pursuit of Trey Hendrickson underscores their bold ambition to win the 2025 Super Bowl. If this trade goes through, it could reshape the AFC landscape and redefine the futures of both the Bills and the Bengals. Can the Bills convince Hendrickson and navigate the financial hurdles? Or will the Bengals find a way to retain their star defender? The answers will unfold as the new season approaches.