Saints Considering to Cut Former All-Pro

Bengals All-Pro edge rusher Trey Hendrickson is seeking a trade and has been given permission to explore opportunities with other teams. As the 2024 NFL sack leader openly discusses his potential departure from Cincinnati, a national insider has linked the Dallas Cowboys to the conversation.

Hendrickson expressed mixed emotions about leaving the Bengals, acknowledging the team’s financial struggles in meeting his market value—now estimated at around $30 million per year for a top-tier pass rusher. “It’s been an honor and privilege to represent Cincinnati over the last four years,” Hendrickson told ESPN. “I love this city and organization. I appreciate the privilege of now being allowed to explore my options.”

But is Dallas one of those options? While the Cowboys have significant cap space—potentially up to $100 million—they are prioritizing a record-setting contract extension for Micah Parsons. Investing $30 million in a second pass rusher seems unlikely.

NFL insider Josina Anderson checked in with sources inside the Cowboys’ organization and shared her insight: “Sounds to me like the current amount Trey Hendrickson is seeking is beyond what the Dallas Cowboys would want to spend for a player of his level,” she wrote.

The message is clear—Dallas is not actively pursuing Hendrickson. However, the team has at least entertained the idea internally before deciding against it.

Hendrickson has been with the Bengals for four seasons, appearing in 110 career games. He has recorded 77 sacks, 151 tackles, and 14 forced fumbles. He led the NFL with 17.5 sacks in 2024, marking the second straight season he averaged more than a sack per game.

The Bengals, meanwhile, are facing financial decisions regarding key players, including wide receivers Tee Higgins (currently on the franchise tag) and Ja’Marr Chase (seeking an extension). With Cincinnati unable to retain all its stars, Hendrickson appears to be on his way out—but not necessarily to Dallas.