The Las Vegas Raiders are emerging as the leading candidate to acquire disgruntled Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson, according to a report from Sports Illustrated’s Hondo Carpenter.
“In a conversation with an NFL executive on Tuesday,” Carpenter writes, “I was informed, ‘I have no doubt the Raiders are the frontrunners. Tom Brady and Mark Davis want to win now, and John (Spytek) has no fear when it comes to making bold moves. The kid (Hendrickson is 30), that move is the mentality of Pete Carroll; he’s not afraid of anything that could improve the team.’”
“The NFL thinks this would be a “no-brainer” move for the Raiders,” Carpenter continued.
Raiders Trade Rumors: LV Front-Runners To Trade For Trey Hendrickson
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Hendrickson, the reigning sack leader for Cincinnati, has publicly expressed frustration over contract negotiations, leaving his future in Cincinnati uncertain. While multiple teams are reportedly exploring trade possibilities, the Raiders’ combination of cap space—nearly $35 million—and a front office unafraid of aggressive moves positions them favorably. Carpenter notes, “The Raiders have nearly $35 million in cap space, and ownership is eager to send a message to the league. They want to demonstrate that they are committed to greatness, with a general manager and coach aligned in their vision.”
On the potential cost, Carpenter cites an NFL executive saying, “From what I hear, the Bengals are seeking either multiple picks or a combination of a pick and a player. They aren’t particularly focused on one side of the ball, but their offense is exceptional, while their defense is (excrement). I would speculate that a player and a third-round pick would be sufficient to land him.”
Pairing Hendrickson with superstar pass rusher Maxx Crosby would immediately elevate the Raiders’ defensive line, giving head coach Pete Carroll a formidable edge-rushing duo. With the Raiders already among the league leaders in cap flexibility and a front office willing to spend on proven talent, the Hendrickson sweepstakes could come down to timing and negotiation with Bengals ownership.
While no deal is imminent, the Raiders’ positioning as frontrunners underscores their commitment to aggressively improving a defense that ranked mid-pack in 2024. For now, all eyes are on the Bengals and whether Hendrickson’s standoff will result in a blockbuster trade.