Lions Propose Trade to Bengals for Superstar Edge Rusher to Pair with Aidan Hutchinson

Detroit, MI – June 28, 2025

The Lions have proposed a blockbuster trade to the Bengals, aiming to land superstar edge rusher Trey Hendrickson to pair with Aidan Hutchinson, bolstering their Super Bowl chase.

Hendrickson, unhappy in Cincinnati, led the NFL with 17.5 sacks in 2024. The Lions offer a 2026 second-round pick and DJ Reader for Hendrickson and a 2026 fifth-round pick.

Hendrickson’s 88.1 PFF grade and 83 pressures in 2024 make him elite. His addition could form the NFL’s fiercest pass-rush duo, per NFL.com.

The trade reunites Reader with the Bengals, where he played four seasons. Detroit’s package avoids losing a first-round pick, preserving draft capital, per The Athletic.

Hutchinson, recovering from a 2024 leg injury, needs a reliable partner. Hendrickson’s 46 career sacks fit Dan Campbell’s aggressive scheme, per MLive.

The Lions’ $42.36 million cap space can absorb Hendrickson’s $31.5 million extension. Brad Holmes balances this with Hutchinson’s looming deal, per Spotrac.

The Bengals, focused on Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase, gain flexibility with Reader and picks. The deal could shift at the trade deadline, per ESPN.

As training camp nears, Lions Pride buzzes with hope. Can Hendrickson and Hutchinson deliver a title? Follow ESPN for updates on this game-changing trade.