With big goals on the horizon for the 2025 season, the Detroit Lions are heading in as strong contenders. According to ESPN BET, they have the top odds to clinch the NFC North and rank fifth among favorites to win the Super Bowl.
Despite their upward trajectory, Detroit still has room to tighten up its defense. Last year, they finished 20th in total yards allowed per game (342.4) and seventh in points given up per game (20.1), showing they could benefit from a defensive upgrade.
Kyle Soppe of Pro Football & Sports Network recently suggested a bold move that could help: a potential trade with the Cincinnati Bengals that would bring defensive end Trey Hendrickson to Detroit. In this scenario, the Lions would receive Hendrickson and the No. 81 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft in return for their No. 28, 102, and 228 picks.
Hendrickson had a standout 2024 campaign, earning his first All-Pro nod and nearly winning Defensive Player of the Year. Known for his disruptive presence on the line, he recorded 46 total tackles, 17.5 sacks, 19 tackles for loss, and 54 quarterback pressures over 17 games.
If this deal goes through, Hendrickson would instantly elevate Detroit’s pass rush. While the Lions were tied for 23rd in sacks last season, they did rank second in quarterback hurries and fourth in pressures — adding someone of Hendrickson’s caliber could take their defense to another level.
The idea of pairing him with Aidan Hutchinson — already one of the league’s rising stars — is a tantalizing one. Together, they could form one of the most feared edge duos in the NFL.
That said, Hendrickson only has a year remaining on his current deal. If the Lions want to make him a long-term fixture, they’ll likely need to work out a contract extension. Spotrac estimates his market value at around $31.5 million per year.
