All-Pro defensive end Myles Garrett dropped a bombshell this week when he declared his intention to ask the Cleveland Browns for a trade. It is easy to understand. The 29-year-old has been a superstar since he stepped on the field in 2017, giving that organization everything he has. Sadly, it hasn't resulted in much playoff success. Now Garrett senses the Browns are treading water with no clear path to a Super Bowl. He wants to pursue a ring before it's too late. People wonder how many teams could end up calling about him, including the Chicago Bears.
There is no question they could use a pass rusher of his caliber to elevate the defense to elite status. However, the Bears have several roster needs elsewhere. Giving up what would likely be two 1st round picks for Garrett isn't the smart play. However, that doesn't mean the Bears can't be aggressive. Another name could soon join Garrett on the trade block, and he's someone who both has ties to the new coaching staff and would cost less to acquire.
It is Pro Bowl defensive end Trey Hendrickson. The 30-year-old is seeking a contract extension after his stellar 17.5-sack season. However, Cincinnati hasn't made a concerted effort to make it happen. He admitted on the Pat McAfee Show that there's a chance they could part ways.
“The goal is to win a Super Bowl for Cincinnati. What that looks like this season—if it’s something we can agree on in terms, that would be great. … If it’s something that helps the Bengals win a Super Bowl by getting picks or anything like that. I want to help Cincinnati win a Super Bowl, whether I’m there or not.”
The Chicago Bears are in a good spot to pursue Hendrickson.
For one, they have the cap space to meet his contract requirements, thanks to the presence of Caleb Williams and his rookie deal. That gives them a three-year window to spend. A solid extension for Hendrickson would be more than doable. Before elevating the Bengals' defense upon arrival in 2021, the defensive end spent his first four seasons in New Orleans. All four were spent under the tutelage of defensive coordinator Dennis Allen, who now holds the same job in Chicago. That means Hendrickson would walk into a scheme he knows well.
Lastly, compensation. Smart money says a trade would likely mirror what happened with Von Miller in 2021. The Los Angeles Rams sent future 2nd and 3rd round picks in 2022 to the Denver Broncos for the All-Pro star. He was 32 years old that season. Hendrickson will be 31 this year. The Chicago Bears have two 2nd round picks this year. GM Ryan Poles is well-equipped to go after the four-time Pro Bowler without having to mortgage the future. Whether he gets the chance depends on what Cincinnati does.
