Panthers, Bengals Near Trade Talks for Star DE Hendrickson

The Carolina Panthers are considering a major defensive upgrade by pursuing a trade for Cincinnati Bengals star edge rusher Trey Hendrickson, who is in a contract stalemate with Cincinnati. The Panthers ranked near the bottom of the league in defensive metrics in 2024, highlighting the need for a pass-rush boost, and Hendrickson's 17.5 sacks in each of the last two seasons make him a highly coveted asset. However, the Bengals are demanding a significant return, reportedly including a 2026 first-round pick and a young defensive player, which poses a dilemma for Panthers general manager Dan Morgan, who prefers building through the draft and maintaining financial flexibility. Trade rumors have surged, with other teams like the Browns and Colts also showing interest, but the steep asking price and Hendrickson's potential contract demands create uncertainty around any deal. Analysts caution that a trade would be a gamble for the Panthers, especially as they are not yet considered playoff contenders and Hendrickson's fit within their 3-4 defensive scheme remains questionable. Ultimately, while acquiring Hendrickson could transform Carolina's defense and send a strong message to the league, the cost and strategic implications mean the Panthers may hesitate before committing to such a seismic roster move.