Raiders’ Malcolm Koonce Shocking Trade Rumors: Could He Be the Key Piece in a Blockbuster Deal for a Vexed Superstar?

The Las Vegas Raiders may be gearing up for one of the most daring trade discussions of the 2025 offseason. NFL.com writer Nick Shook listed defensive end Malcolm Koonce in a speculative trade package for Cincinnati Bengals star pass rusher Trey Hendrickson, whose ongoing contract standoff has left him uncertain about his future with the team.

Raiders Trade Scenario Involving Sending Away Malcolm Koonce for Trey Hendrickson

GettyCincinnati Bengals ‘vexed’ pass rusher Trey Hendrickson.

While Raiders fans have plenty to be optimistic about offensively under Pete Carroll and Geno Smith, questions about the defense linger. The unit lost multiple contributors this offseason and, particularly in the secondary, appears weaker heading into 2025.

Shook raised the question many in league circles are starting to wonder: with $34 million in effective cap space, could the Raiders justify pairing Maxx Crosby with Hendrickson, even if it meant sending Koonce and a first-round pick to Cincinnati?

It’s a bold scenario, but one with logic behind it. Crosby has long carried the defense on his back, and with the departure of Christian Wilkins, the Raiders could use another superstar in Hendrickson. He led the NFL last season with 17.5 sacks and has made four straight Pro Bowls.

An opportunity like this doesn’t come around often, and the Raiders should, at the very least, call the Bengals and see what they are willing to accept for Hendrickson.

Hendrickson’s Standoff and the Bengals’ Dilemma

The biggest reason Hendrickson’s name is even in the trade market has nothing to do with his performance and everything to do with contract security. As ESPN’s Ben Baby reports, Hendrickson remains firm in his stance: he won’t take the field until the Bengals resolve the guaranteed money dispute in his extension.

“Recognition’s not something I’m chasing,” Hendrickson said. “It’s not. I think I’ve made my statements clear. Security is something that I value and [telling] my wife where we’re going to play. Those are the things that matter to me.”

Despite reporting to training camp, he has not practiced with the team, nor played in any preseason action.

From the Bengals’ perspective, Hendrickson remains one of their most important defensive pieces, fresh off a career-best year. It would be like if the Raiders didn’t want to pay Crosby.

But Cincinnati isn’t playing its cards right. Plain and simple, and now they are paying the price. If the impasse lingers into the season, the front office could be forced to seriously weigh offers rather than risk losing leverage, and the Raiders should take advantage.

This kind of blockbuster trade for the Raiders hinges on whether they believe Hendrickson’s long-term demands align with their financial situation, and whether the Bengals are willing to part ways with a player of his caliber.

As the standoff continues, one thing is clear: Trey Hendrickson’s future in Cincinnati is murkier than ever. And if John Spytek is willing to gamble, Koonce’s name could be the key piece that seals the deal.