Alright, Lions fans — get ready. There’s a bold NFL trade idea making the rounds, and it’s turning heads for all the right reasons.
In a scenario imagined by Mike Luciano from FanSided, the Detroit Lions make a major move to address their most glaring weakness by trading for elite edge rusher Trey Hendrickson of the Cincinnati Bengals.
Here’s the deal:
Lions would receive:
- EDGE Trey Hendrickson
- A 2025 fifth-round pick (No. 153)
- A 2026 fourth-round pick
Bengals would receive:
- A 2025 first-round pick (No. 28 overall)
- A 2025 seventh-round pick (No. 228)
- A 2026 third-round pick
This proposed trade is nothing short of a bold statement.
Why it could work for Detroit
The Lions’ defense showed real progress in 2024, but the pass rush — particularly the help opposite Aidan Hutchinson — still needs reinforcement. Hendrickson, a relentless pass rusher who’s tallied double-digit sacks every season since 2020, would be a huge addition. At 29, he’s still in his prime and arguably one of the most underrated players at his position.
Teaming him up with Hutchinson would give Detroit a potentially dominant edge duo and elevate their defense to a whole new level. While giving up a first-rounder and other picks is costly, GM Brad Holmes has consistently proven he’s willing to make bold moves when the time is right.
Contract considerations
Hendrickson is entering the final year of his deal and wants a new contract, which adds a layer of complexity. However, if the Lions view him as a key piece to their Super Bowl puzzle, negotiating a long-term extension would likely be part of the plan.
The message? Detroit is all in.
This move would signal that the Lions are no longer underdogs — they’re serious contenders. Adding a proven star like Hendrickson could be the final push needed for a deep playoff run in 2025. Though it’s only a hypothetical trade, it’s exactly the kind of bold move that could turn Detroit into a championship-caliber team.
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