Philadelphia, PA – June 13, 2025
If you thought the Eagles were done making moves, think again. Howie Roseman is back in full “mad scientist” mode, and this time, his eyes are set on one of the NFL’s most dangerous edge rushers — Trey Hendrickson.
According to multiple sources, the Eagles’ front office has launched an aggressive campaign to acquire Hendrickson from the Cincinnati Bengals. The veteran pass rusher, coming off a career-best 17.5-sack season, is reportedly at odds with Bengals management over contract demands. That’s all Roseman needed to hear.
“He’s 30. He’s dominant. And he’s available,” an anonymous league insider told PhillyVoice. “That’s the exact kind of situation Howie pounces on.”
With Brandon Graham retired and Bryce Huff traded, Philadelphia is thin on proven edge threats. Enter Hendrickson — a relentless quarterback hunter with the motor to fit seamlessly into Vic Fangio’s pressure-heavy scheme. In 2024, Hendrickson also racked up 23 quarterback hits and was a key reason the Bengals remained a top-10 defensive unit.
Roseman isn’t sitting on his hands. Armed with 13 picks in the 2026 NFL Draft and $30 million in cap space, he’s reportedly dangling a mid-round pick and possibly a young defensive player to sweeten the pot. While no deal has been finalized, insiders say talks have accelerated in recent days.
But not everyone is sold.
“Trading for a 30-year-old who wants a payday is risky,” one X user posted. “Is Howie building for the future or gambling everything on 2025?” Another fan fired back: “This is the move that wins championships. Give me the sack machine.”
The contract issue looms large. Hendrickson is on the final year of his deal and seeking an extension that could push him into the $20 million per year range. But with the Eagles freeing up space by releasing Darius Slay and avoiding big spending in free agency, the move is financially feasible — especially if Roseman structures a front-loaded extension.
Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio has reportedly signed off on the pursuit, believing Hendrickson would complement young rushers Nolan Smith and Jalyx Hunt while easing the pressure on Haason Reddick's replacement. “He would tilt the field instantly,” said one assistant coach.
As minicamp approaches, the pressure’s on. The Eagles are expected to make one or two final moves before locking in their 2025 roster. And if Hendrickson walks into the NovaCare Complex this summer, it won’t just be another signing — it could be the move that defines Philadelphia’s season.
Because when Howie smells a Super Bowl window, he doesn’t tap gently. He kicks the door down.
