One doesn’t have to look far in the media for speculation linking the Washington Commanders with another blockbuster trade for Trey Hendrickson. Rumors are flying, but nobody knows if they carry any legitimate weight.
Hendrickson made his feelings abundantly clear. The All-Pro defensive end feels let down by the Cincinnati Bengals. He went on a media attack this week, claiming that there is no chance he’s playing in 2025 without a new deal. Communication has been cut off by both sides, leading some to ponder whether the time is right to seriously consider trade possibilities.
The Commanders are desperately short of consistent, explosive edge rushers. Adam Peters seems happy enough with the options available, but that’s not an opinion shared by most fans. Acquiring Hendrickson won’t be cheap, and Washington isn’t blessed with many assets, but he would be a game-changer in no uncertain terms.
Commanders are being constantly linked with a trade for Trey Hendrickson
Andrew Buller-Russ from Sportsnaut is another who thought the Commanders should take a big swing for Hendrickson. The analyst thought his production and star power could be enough for Dan Quinn to avoid the second-year slump and help Joe Whitt Jr.’s defense take off in 2025 for good measure.
“While they managed to create pressure last year, success oftentimes doesn’t carry over to the next season without an established star leading the way. [Trey] Hendrickson can be that presence in Washington, ensuring the Commanders’ defense only takes another step forward in 2025.”
Andrew Buller-Russ
It’s hard to argue against that. Hendrickson has 35 sacks over the last two seasons. He’s a respected locker room leader and leaves everything out on the field. It’s a major improvement on Washington’s pass-rushing options and a tremendous fit within the locker room.
Things aren’t that simple. Hendrickson remains under contract next season. The Bengals could resist offers and let him sit out the campaign. They could also bow to his demands and provide the four-time Pro Bowler with the extension his performance levels deserve.
If this fractured relationship is dented further, Cincinnati could entertain trade offers. Extracting maximum value for an elite-level player might be something to consider, although it would deplete an already vulnerable defense further. There’s just no telling for sure, but things are hanging in the balance.
The Commanders might check in. Whether it amounts to anything more remains to be seen, but the chances remain highly unlikely.
There are only so many bombshell trades a team can make. After sealing deals for Marshon Lattimore, Deebo Samuel Sr., and Laremy Tunsil, acquiring Hendrickson might be a step too far. No amount of media speculation and hearsay will change that.
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