The Lions could get the perfect counterpart for Aidan Hutchinson if they are able to pull off this move.
Lions blockbuster trade pitch forms nightmare Aidan Hutchinson duo with 81 sack edge rusher originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Cincinnati Bengals went through a difficult stretch with pass rusher Trey Hendrickson as the offseason wore on. Hendrickson made it clear he was unwilling to play for the Bengals without a new contract. At one point, the situation escalated to the point where he was considering a trade if no deal was reached.
“The Bengals and their star defensive end have been discussing a new contract for months and appear to be at an impasse. Things have gotten so bad, Cincinnati has actually begun listening to trade offers for the four-time Pro Bowler,” SI’s Ryan Phillips wrote.
Fortunately for both sides, Cincinnati eventually realized they needed to pay their star defender — and they did. Hendrickson received a new contract, which kept him satisfied for the time being. Since his arrival, he has been a major contributor to the Bengals’ success.
“Hendrickson, who has attended meetings and been on the sidelines during training camp, is expected to return to practice Wednesday as one of the highest-paid edge rushers in the league. Reports have his new 2025 money at $30 million, and he indicated both sides are open to talking about a deal beyond this season,” Bengals writer Geoff Hobson wrote.
However, Hendrickson’s name has recently resurfaced in trade discussions, with the Detroit Lions emerging as a potential destination.
Proposed Trade:
- Lions receive: Edge Trey Hendrickson, 2026 fourth-round pick
- Bengals receive: 2026 second-round pick
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“Trading for a player on a short-term contract such as Hendrickson is a luxury the Lions can afford now. It will be much more difficult in the years to come. And while Holmes and coach Dan Campbell are very careful about establishing a culture in Detroit, Campbell would have crossed paths with the talented defensive end when he and Hendrickson were both in New Orleans. This wouldn't be as risky as it seems,” ESPN’s Bill Barnwell wrote.
Pairing Hendrickson with Aidan Hutchinson would create one of the most dangerous pass-rushing duos in the NFL. Opposing offenses would be facing a nightmare scenario every Sunday.
Even if the deal isn’t long-term, it would give the Lions a legitimate shot at a Super Bowl run this season. With the November 4 trade deadline approaching, this is a move Detroit should seriously consider.
Category: Football
