The Buffalo Bills made a splash this offseason by signing veteran pass rusher following his release from the Los Angeles Chargers after nine seasons. He brings proven production and experience to a defense looking to generate more consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
While his arrival is a big step forward, the Bills could still benefit from adding another edge rusher to bolster their rotation, especially considering recent injury histories and the need for depth. However, with the market thin on top-tier free agents and the trade window relatively quiet this close to the season, Buffalo may have limited options. Still, keeping an eye on potential post-camp cuts or under-the-radar trade targets could be key to further strengthening the pass rush.
Top veteran star is confirmed to be a massive addition for the Buffalo Bills if the Cincinnati Bengals decide to move on from the star edge rusher due to stalled contract negotiations. Despite turning 31 this season, Hendrickson remains one of the NFL’s elite sack artists, with back-to-back 17.5-sack seasons and a recent First-Team All-Pro nod highlighting just how dominant he still is.
Given that Joey Bosa—Buffalo’s big offseason pickup—is already nursing injuries, the need for another high-end edge presence becomes even more urgent. Hendrickson’s consistent production and durability (especially compared to Bosa and Von Miller) would offer the Bills the disruptive force they’ve lacked on the edge, particularly in big moments.
While Buffalo doesn’t have a surplus of early draft picks, the potential cost of a second-rounder for an elite pass rusher like Hendrickson could prove to be a worthwhile win-now move. Considering their Super Bowl window and current roster construction, GM Brandon Beane may find this gamble justified—especially if the Bengals lower their asking price.
If Hendrickson becomes truly available, Buffalo makes as much sense as any contender. With a front four of Hendrickson, Ed Oliver, DaQuan Jones, and Bosa (when healthy), the Bills could field one of the most fearsome pass-rushing units in the AFC—something they’ll need in a conference still loaded with elite quarterbacks.
Hendrickson Would Be A Great Fit For Buffalo
The 30-year-old Trey Hendrickson is fresh off a four-year, \$60 million deal and is likely seeking a similar payday as he looks for long-term security. Given his consistent production — four double-digit sack seasons in the past five years — Hendrickson remains one of the league’s most reliable and disruptive edge rushers.
For the Buffalo Bills, acquiring Hendrickson would be a no-brainer in terms of on-field impact. With Von Miller aging and Joey Bosa’s injury history, Hendrickson would immediately elevate Buffalo’s defensive front and give them a dominant pass-rushing presence they’ve lacked in key playoff games.
However, the biggest hurdle may not be the financials or compensation — it’s the Cincinnati Bengals’ willingness to deal him to an AFC contender. With both teams harboring postseason aspirations, the Bengals may be hesitant to strengthen a potential playoff rival, especially one like Buffalo that’s consistently in the mix.
That said, if Hendrickson’s camp pushes for a move and the Bengals are focused on avoiding a contract standoff, the Bills could have a chance. It would likely take a compelling offer — perhaps a Day 2 draft pick and a young player — but for a Super Bowl-hungry team like Buffalo, it might be worth the price.