Trey Hendrickson landing spots: Top 3 teams that could sign the veteran edge rusher

The Cincinnati Bengals have made a major offseason decision regarding veteran pass rusher Trey Hendrickson. The franchise chose not to place the franchise tag on the four-time Pro Bowler, clearing the path for him to enter the free-agent market once the new league year begins.Hendrickson is now one of the best defensive players on the market. Even though he is 31 years old and coming off a season where he was hurt, teams looking for quick help on the defensive line want him since he is always able to pressure passers.

Which teams could pursue Hendrickson in free agency?

The Bengals reportedly decided against tagging him due to the projected $30 million-plus cap hit and the team’s broader roster needs. Cincinnati also explored potential tag-and-trade scenarios but struggled to find a partner willing to pay both the trade compensation and Hendrickson’s expected contract.

With free agency approaching, several franchises in need of pass-rushing help could emerge as strong landing spots.

Detroit Lions

The Detroit Lions could be one of the most intriguing fits for Hendrickson. Aidan Hutchinson is already one of the most disruptive defensive players in the game for Detroit. If they add another outstanding edge rusher to him, the defensive front might change a lot.Hendrickson's style fits well with the Lions' defense, which is all about putting constant pressure on the quarterback and playing with a high motor.

If Detroit wants to take the next step toward becoming a serious Super Bowl contender, adding a proven pass rusher opposite Hutchinson could give the team one of the most dangerous edge duos in the league.

New England Patriots

The New England Patriots are another team that might go after Hendrickson hard this offseason. The Patriots had a hard time putting continuous pressure on the quarterback in 2025, and their sack differential showed that they needed to make improvements to their defensive line.New England has a lot of room in its wage cap, so it can afford to go after top free agents. Mike Vrabel, the head coach, has stressed the need of developing a strong defense and Hendrickson's experience might help fix one of the team's major problems right away.

Indianapolis Colts

The Indianapolis Colts may offer the most natural reunion scenario for Hendrickson. Indianapolis recently hired former Bengals defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, the coach under whom Hendrickson enjoyed some of the most productive seasons of his career.Hendrickson had several seasons with double-digit sacks while playing for Cincinnati in Anarumo's system. That knowledge could help the change go smoothly and let him make a difference right away.The Colts also need to improve their pass rush because it wasn't very good in 2025. Adding Hendrickson would give the defense some stability by giving them veteran leadership and proven edge pressure.As free agency gets closer, Hendrickson's market is likely to grow quickly. Teams in the NFL are always looking for guys who can mess up the quarterbacks on the other team, and the veteran edge rusher is still one of the best choices.