Eagles Could Land NFL’s Sack Leader in Trade Proposal
An exciting opportunity may be opening up for the Philadelphia Eagles as training camp approaches.
Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson remains locked in a contract dispute. After leading the NFL with 17.5 sacks in 2024 and earning first-team All-Pro honors, Hendrickson wants a deal that matches his elite production. He’s set to earn $16 million in 2025—far below the pay of Myles Garrett and Maxx Crosby, who earn $40 million and $35.5 million annually, respectively.
Hendrickson has openly voiced his frustration with the Bengals’ front office, citing poor communication and lack of transparency. He has stated he will not play under his current contract.
NFL insider Matt Lombardo told Heavy Sports’ Paul Esden Jr. that he views the Eagles as one of three teams positioned to trade for Hendrickson. The Detroit Lions and Washington Commanders also remain in the mix.
Hendrickson’s Contract Standoff With the Bengals
Although the Bengals granted Hendrickson permission to seek a trade in March, they have rejected multiple offers. Cincinnati continues to demand significant compensation—possibly a first-round pick. Head coach Zac Taylor has publicly expressed his desire to keep Hendrickson, but the deadlock persists.
The Bengals also face major contract decisions with star receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. Their long-term financial planning may limit flexibility in meeting Hendrickson’s demands. As mandatory minicamp nears and potential fines loom, the conflict could escalate quickly if unresolved.
According to Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio, the Bengals offered Hendrickson a contract worth $28 million per year. However, Hendrickson seeks more in both financial terms and structural guarantees.
“The Bengals, we’ve heard, have offered roughly $28 million per year,” Florio reported. “Whatever the amount (and, as importantly, the structure), he wants more. He had a chance to get it, when the team gave him permission to seek a trade. That went nowhere, because no one was willing to give him what he wants.”
Why the Eagles Should Consider Trading for Trey Hendrickson
Despite recent investments in Saquon Barkley and Zack Baun, the Eagles created cap flexibility by parting ways with veterans James Bradberry and Darius Slay. Hendrickson’s reliability and production make him an ideal target for a defense that lacks an elite edge rusher. With nearly $26 million in cap space, Eagles GM Howie Roseman could free up more through restructures if needed.
Currently, Nolan Smith and rookie Jalyx Hunt project as the starting edge rushers, with Bryce Huff, Azeez Ojulari, and Josh Uche behind them. The Eagles spent $51 million on Huff hoping he’d be their go-to guy, but he hasn’t delivered. Hendrickson, with 34 sacks over the past two seasons, has already proven he’s that kind of difference-maker.
If the Bengals truly want a first-round pick, the Eagles should pass. But a more reasonable trade package—perhaps a 2026 second-round pick and a conditional 2026 fourth-rounder—could get the deal done.
Roseman has a track record of making bold, strategic moves to bolster his roster. Acquiring Hendrickson would fit that mold. With their championship window still open, the Eagles could significantly boost their chances of a Super Bowl repeat by landing the NFL’s top sack artist. Roseman doesn’t need to overpay—but he absolutely should be making the call.
