Cleveland Browns Eyeing Trey Hendrickson: Can the Bengals Pass Rusher Boost Their Defense?

In the NFL, pass rushers are always in high demand, and one of the most sought-after names this offseason is Trey Hendrickson. Known for his explosive performance and relentless motor, Hendrickson has been a cornerstone of the Cincinnati Bengals’ defensive line since his arrival. However, with growing interest from multiple teams, including the Cleveland Browns, the future of the 28-year-old defensive end is now in flux.

A Strong Track Record

Trey Hendrickson’s resume speaks for itself. After joining the Bengals from the New Orleans Saints in 2021, Hendrickson made an immediate impact. In his first season with Cincinnati, he registered a career-high 14 sacks, earning his first Pro Bowl selection. This was followed by another strong season in 2024, in which he racked up 17.5 sacks, cementing his reputation as one of the premier pass rushers in the NFL. His ability to collapse the pocket and create havoc in the backfield has made him one of the league’s most feared defenders.

The Cleveland Browns' Interest

The Cleveland Browns, with their championship aspirations, have turned their attention toward Hendrickson as a potential addition to their defense. The Browns have long been in search of a game-changing pass rusher to complement Myles Garrett, and Hendrickson could be the missing piece.

“I’ve always been excited about playing for a team with championship potential like Cleveland,” Hendrickson said regarding the interest from the Browns. "The opportunity to play alongside Myles Garrett and Mason Graham would be incredible, and I’m ready to give my best."

The thought of pairing Hendrickson with Garrett, who is already regarded as one of the top edge rushers in the league, has the potential to create one of the most dangerous pass-rushing duos in the NFL. With Garrett's relentless pursuit of the quarterback and Hendrickson’s proven ability to finish plays, the Browns' defense would be a force to be reckoned with.

The Bengals' High Asking Price

While Hendrickson’s potential move to Cleveland has generated buzz, the deal is far from a sure thing. According to sources close to the Bengals, the team has placed a high asking price on their star pass rusher. Cincinnati is likely aware of the value Hendrickson brings to their defense, and with his contract expiring soon, the Bengals may be hesitant to part ways with one of their top defensive players unless they receive significant compensation.

Cleveland would also face competition from other teams interested in Hendrickson. The Carolina Panthers and the Indianapolis Colts are both reportedly eyeing the pass rusher, adding a layer of complexity to the trade talks. The presence of multiple suitors could drive up the price for Hendrickson, making it more challenging for the Browns to strike a deal that benefits both sides.

The Impact of a Potential Move

If the Browns were to successfully acquire Hendrickson, the impact on their defense could be immediate and profound. Garrett and Hendrickson together would form an elite pass-rushing tandem, creating consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks and making life difficult for offensive lines. The Browns’ defense, which already features playmakers like Denzel Ward and Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, would take a significant step forward in their quest to become one of the league’s top units.

For Hendrickson, joining a team with Super Bowl aspirations like Cleveland would provide him with a fresh start and the chance to compete for a championship. His leadership and experience would be invaluable in a locker room that is already loaded with talent.

The Bottom Line

As the NFL offseason progresses, all eyes will be on Trey Hendrickson’s future. While his potential trade to the Cleveland Browns seems intriguing, the deal remains complicated by Cincinnati’s high asking price and competition from other suitors. If Hendrickson does end up in Cleveland, however, it could be a game-changer for the Browns' defense. With Garrett and Hendrickson on the same line, Cleveland’s defense would become one of the most formidable in the league, giving them a significant edge in the playoff race.

Whether Hendrickson stays with the Bengals or moves to Cleveland, one thing is clear: the next few weeks will be crucial in determining the future of one of the NFL’s most dynamic pass rushers.