Lions Tipped to ‘Go All-In’ With Blockbuster Trade For Deep Playoff Run

On Friday, Moton included a bold prediction in his training camp preview, suggesting that Detroit should pursue a trade for veteran pass rusher Trey Hendrickson from the Cincinnati Bengals. Moton proposed a deal that would send a second-round pick in 2026 along with a fifth-rounder to Cincinnati in exchange for Hendrickson.

“The Bengals might hesitate to hand out a lucrative multi-year deal to a 30-year-old defender approaching his 31st birthday,” Moton wrote. “If the offer is right, they could be open to moving him.”

Why the Lions Could Use Hendrickson

Detroit’s pass rush, while strong with star Aidan Hutchinson leading the way, lacks consistency on the opposite edge. Free-agent signing Marcus Davenport has battled injuries for much of his career — missing 28 games over the last two seasons. Meanwhile, Al-Quadin Muhammad has mostly served as a depth player throughout his eight-year NFL tenure, and 2022 second-round pick Josh Paschal has yet to make a significant impact as a pass rusher.

With championship aspirations, Moton argued, Detroit should act aggressively to address this clear weakness.

A Proven Sack Specialist

Hendrickson would bring elite production to the Motor City. Over the last two seasons, no player in the league has more sacks — recording an impressive 17.5 in both 2023 and 2024, totaling 35. That dominance earned him first-team All-Pro honors for the first time and his fourth consecutive Pro Bowl selection.

The Bengals defender is entering the final year of his contract — a one-year extension tacked onto the original four-year deal he signed in 2021. He’s set to earn $21 million in 2025.

Throughout his NFL career, the former New Orleans Saints draft pick has played 110 games and amassed 77 sacks, 71 tackles for loss, and 155 quarterback hits. He has also broken up 15 passes — showcasing his all-around disruption ability.

If the Bengals decide to shop him, Hendrickson would surely draw widespread interest across the league. Given the Lions’ current window to contend, a move for the NFL’s top sack artist might just be the final piece to push them over the top.