The Green Bay Packers could be eyeing a major defensive boost as GM Brian Gutekunst has provided an intriguing update regarding a potential trade for Cincinnati Bengals pass rusher Trey Hendrickson. The standout edge rusher, who led the Bengals in sacks last season, recently requested a trade, sending shockwaves across the NFL.
With several teams reportedly interested, Gutekunst addressed the situation, hinting that Green Bay is monitoring Hendrickson’s availability closely. “We’re always looking to improve our football team, and when a player of his caliber becomes available, you have to do your due diligence,” Gutekunst said during the NFL Combine. “We feel good about our current pass rush, but we’ll explore every opportunity that makes sense.”
This statement has fueled speculation that the Packers could be serious contenders for Hendrickson, especially after parting ways with veteran edge rusher Preston Smith. The team already boasts Rashan Gary and promising young rusher Lukas Van Ness, but adding Hendrickson would provide an elite pass-rushing trio that could wreak havoc in the NFC North.
Hendrickson, who has posted double-digit sacks in three straight seasons, would be a game-changing addition to a Green Bay defense that showed flashes of dominance in 2023 but lacked consistency. With Jordan Love emerging as the team’s franchise quarterback, a fortified defense could push the Packers into true Super Bowl contention.
The Bengals, meanwhile, appear open to trading Hendrickson but are expected to seek significant compensation. Cincinnati GM Duke Tobin has been noncommittal about Hendrickson’s future, stating that “we value Trey tremendously, but we’ll always do what’s best for the team.”
While nothing is imminent, Gutekunst’s comments indicate that the Packers are keeping a close eye on Hendrickson’s market. If the price is right, Green Bay could be in for a major defensive splash—one that would send a clear message to the rest of the NFC.
Stay tuned as trade talks develop.
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