The Chicago Bears need difference-makers at multiple positions. While the offensive line remains the focus, most agree they need to find another pass rusher to pair with Montez Sweat. They have multiple options on the table. Free agency is an option, with names like Chase Young and Josh Sweat likely to be available. It is also believed this 2025 draft class has plenty of good options on the defensive front. However, one area to watch with this team is always the trade market. GM Ryan Poles is never afraid to make deals.
Normally, great pass rushers aren't available unless it's for a monumental return. Think Khalil Mack. However, sometimes, teams are forced to make tough decisions due to money issues. It sounds like the Cincinnati Bengals are in the middle of that crisis. They have three key players who need new contracts. According to Dianna Russini of The Athletic, they're hoping to keep all three. Unfortunately, the chances aren't great. Based on how she hears, one of them could be on the outs.
Wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, as well as pass rusher Trey Hendrickson are all due big paydays, and it seems something’s got to give.
With the possibility of the franchise tag being placed on Tee Higgins, I was told Bengals decision-makers are stressing the need to get a long-term deal done with 26-year-old. The organization has not informed Higgins’ side about whether he will be tagged before Tuesday’s deadline.
Meanwhile, Chase is expected to reset the non-QB market. An offer has been made by Cincinnati, but the two sides remain far apart in talks for now. If the Bengals can’t get deals done with all three, Hendrickson is most likely to be the odd man out.
The Chicago Bears have several reasons to want Hendrickson.
Yes, he's in his 30s now and might not have the longevity a team would prefer. Even so, he just led the league in sacks (17.5), and good pass rushers tend to survive to their mid-30s. The Chicago Bears have more than enough money to meet his demands on a short-term extension of around two years. He gets his payday and the Bears get a top-tier sack artist across from Sweat. Even better, he has ties to new defensive coordinator Dennis Allen. The two worked together for years in New Orleans. Their last season together, Hendrickson had 13.5 sacks. It likely won't cost a massive package of picks to acquire him. If the Bears aren't sure about their chances of landing a good one in the draft, trading for him is an easy sell.
