The Indianapolis Colts have both the need and the resources to pursue Cincinnati Bengals pass rusher Trey Hendrickson. The key questions are: what will it take to acquire him, and would the Colts be willing to make the move?
Colts general manager Chris Ballard has long sought a dominant defensive end, investing multiple draft picks in the position with minimal success. Trading for Hendrickson would require both draft capital and a significant contract, but if the price is reasonable, it would be well worth the investment.
Luke Schultheis of Stampede Blue highlighted just how impactful Hendrickson has been.
The 30-year-old led the NFL with 17.5 sacks last season, earning First-Team All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors while finishing second in Defensive Player of the Year voting. His 35 total sacks over the past two seasons are also the most in the league.
Considering how many high draft picks the Colts have spent on defensive ends with little return, the idea of sending a second-round pick—or even a second, third, and fifth—to Cincinnati for Hendrickson could be tempting. However, it remains to be seen whether Ballard would be willing to part with valuable draft assets while also committing to a sizable contract for a player on the other side of 30.
Elite pass rushers rarely become available, and when they do, they come at a premium. However, the impact of a strong pass rush is undeniable. The Colts cannot afford to keep giving opposing quarterbacks unlimited time in the pocket. Even if it costs a second-rounder, acquiring Hendrickson would be a move worth considering, as there’s no guarantee a second-round pick would provide the same level of production.
With Hendrickson seeking a trade, the Colts having coaching connections to him, and the Bengals likely open to fair compensation, all the pieces are in place for a potential deal. The real question is whether Ballard will make the move and how competitive the bidding war will get. If Cincinnati is willing to accept a second-round pick, Indianapolis should strongly consider pulling the trigger. This move would address one of the team’s biggest weaknesses and help reshape the franchise’s defensive identity. Whether the Colts step up remains to be seen.
