NFL REPORT: Bengals and Panthers Mentioned In Possible Blockbuster Trade

REPORT: Panthers Could Target Trey Hendrickson in Trade Amid Ongoing Rebuild

 

The Carolina Panthers continue to reshape their roster this offseason, and a new name has surfaced as a potential trade target: Trey Hendrickson, the Pro Bowl edge rusher currently with the Cincinnati Bengals.

 

According to David Helman of FOX Sports, the Panthers may be a sleeper team in the Hendrickson sweepstakes. While there’s been no confirmed deal on the table, Carolina reportedly has the financial flexibility to absorb Hendrickson’s contract and could offer draft capital in return.

 

“The Panthers have the cap space and the need. It’s not out of the question,” Helman said on a recent segment.

 

Hendrickson, 29, remains one of the most consistent pass-rushers in the NFL. He recorded 17.5 sacks last seasonthird-most in the league and has logged double-digit sacks in four straight years. With Cincinnati reportedly open to trade offers amid internal contract discussions, Hendrickson’s availability has drawn interest across the league.

 

The fit, however, is debatable. The Panthers are clearly in rebuild mode under new head coach Dave Canales. Following a 2–15 finish in 2024 and the loss of multiple defensive veterans, Carolina appears to be focused on developing its young core around quarterback Bryce Young and recent draft picks. That context raises the question: Would Hendrickson even want to go there?

 

While the team isn’t a title contender, the need for edge help is urgent. Carolina traded away Brian Burns last season and has since spent resources rebuilding its defensive line. Adding a proven sack artist like Hendrickson could accelerate that effort  even if it comes with short-term awkwardness in fit.

If the Panthers are truly interested, the decision will come down to two factors: Hendrickson’s willingness to join a non-contender, and whether Carolina believes the price is worth accelerating the timeline on a long-term defensive rebuild.

 

For now, the door is cracked open. And in a league where pass-rushers are always in demand, Carolina may just make a surprise move to bolster its front seven.