The Green Bay Packers have been watching the situation surrounding Cincinnati Bengals star pass rusher Trey Hendrickson with bated breath, and they might be ready to make a move for the game-changing star after getting rid of their own former Pro Bowler.
After getting fed up with his constant injury problems and big contract, the Packers released cornerback Jaire Alexander. The move not only got a major headache off the roster, but it saved enough cap space to convince the Packers to step up their pursuit of Hendrickson.
After releasing Alexander, the Packers were able to free up an extra $17 million in cap space. Per Over The Cap, Green Bay now has $46 million in available cap, which puts them at third in the league in that regard. They are positioned to go on the attack for a player like Hendrickson.
The Bengals are a notoriously cheap franchise, and they already have three hefty long-term contracts on the offensive side of the ball. It is unlikely that any sort of deal gets worked out, which could make a future with Hendrickson in green and gold a reality.
Packers' Jaire Alexander release could lead to Trey Hendrickson trade
As a pass rusher, Hendrickson is as close to beyond reproach as anyone currently plying their trade in the league. Coming off an All-Pro season in which he led the league with 17.5 sacks, any contender would be foaming at the mouth when faced with the possibility of adding him to the team.
Hendrickson is sure to attract interest from across the league, as there are teams out there who would be fawning over the chance to trade for him. Look no further than the NFC North, as every other team in that division could create an enticing package that forces Cincinnati's hand.
While the Packers' offense is much better after using premium 2025 NFL Draft picks on wide receiver Matthew Golden and offensive lineman Anthony Belton, many were surprised when the Packers chose not to use any of their top picks on pass rushers. What better way to solve that problem than by acquiring Hendrickson in a trade?
The Packers only have one giant contract on the books, thanks to Jordan Love. Now is the time to go big-game hunting as the rest of the NFC North continues to improve around them, and no move would impact winning more than trading for Hendrickson.