The Detroit Lions are reportedly considering a blockbuster trade that would send former No. 2 overall selection Aidan Hutchinson to the Cincinnati Bengals in exchange for experienced edge rusher Trey Hendrickson. This surprising move might send shockwaves through the NFL. According to sources, serious talks are in progress as both teams consider the long-term effects of what would be one of the largest deals of the 2025 offseason, even though nothing has been agreed.
Since being selected in the 2022 draft, Hutchinson, 24, has emerged as the face of Detroit’s defensive comeback. The Michigan native, who has 21 career sacks and other game-changing performances, has been a fan favorite and an important part of Dan Campbell’s culture change.
However, with championship hopes in sight, rumors around the league indicate Detroit’s front office may be trying to shift toward more seasoned, experienced defensive line leadership.
Let’s introduce Trey Hendrickson.
Since joining Cincinnati in 2021, the Bengals’ Pro Bowl pass rusher has established himself as one of the NFL’s most reliable and disruptive edge defenders. Hendrickson is still a formidable opponent, having recorded 17.5 sacks in 2023 alone. However, it seems the Bengals would be willing to rearrange their defensive core, particularly if it means getting a younger, rising player like Hutchinson, following contract disagreements and a reported trade request earlier this year.
Fans and observers expressed amazement that Detroit would even consider moving on from Hutchinson as early news of the possible deal circulated on social media Tuesday morning. While some consider it a win-now strategy, others wonder how much it will cost in the long run to give up a player with such a high prospective.
Although Lions general manager Brad Holmes has not made any public remarks, people familiar with the matter indicate that the team sees Hendrickson as a “plug-and-play difference-maker” for a defense eager to advance. Bold moves might be on the table because the NFC North is wide open and the Lions are predicted to compete again in 2025.
Both players are now still with their respective clubs, but if the rumors are correct, this move may change the defensive profiles of two teams that are in the running for the playoffs.
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