Trade Proposal: Bears Eye Hendrickson, Bengals Target Kmet and Draft Picks

In a strategic move that could reshape both franchises, the Chicago Bears are reportedly eyeing a trade with the Cincinnati Bengals involving star pass rusher Trey Hendrickson. The Bengals, in turn, are targeting Bears tight end Cole Kmet and additional draft picks to facilitate the deal.

Trey Hendrickson, a four-time Pro Bowler and the 2024 NFL sack leader with 17.5 sacks, has been a cornerstone of the Bengals’ defense since joining the team in 2021. However, with one year remaining on his four-year, $60 million contract, Hendrickson has expressed frustration over stalled contract negotiations and a lack of communication from the Bengals’ management . This dissatisfaction has led the Bengals to grant Hendrickson permission to seek a trade, opening the door for potential suitors like the Bears .

The Bears, under new head coach Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Dennis Allen, are looking to bolster their pass rush. Adding Hendrickson would provide a formidable duo alongside Montez Sweat, enhancing the team’s defensive capabilities. Reports suggest that the Bears are considering offering a second-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft to acquire Hendrickson, capitalizing on their ample draft capital and favorable salary cap situation .

On the other side, the Bengals are seeking to retool their roster and have identified Cole Kmet as a potential acquisition. Kmet, who signed a four-year, $50 million extension with the Bears in 2023, has been a reliable target in the passing game. The Bengals view Kmet as a valuable asset to strengthen their offensive unit.

To facilitate the trade, the Bengals are reportedly requesting additional draft picks from the Bears. This would allow the Bengals to address various needs while parting with a high-cost veteran like Hendrickson .

Several trade scenarios have been proposed:

• Scenario 1: Bears receive Trey Hendrickson; Bengals receive a 2025 second-round pick.
• Scenario 2: Bears receive Trey Hendrickson; Bengals receive Cole Kmet and a 2025 draft pick.
• Scenario 3: Bears receive Trey Hendrickson and a 2025 draft pick; Bengals receive Cole Kmet and a 2025 second-round pick.

Each scenario offers a different balance of assets, reflecting the negotiating positions and strategic goals of both teams.

• For the Bears: Acquiring Hendrickson would address their pass rush needs and provide a veteran presence on the defensive line. However, parting with Kmet could impact their offensive depth, particularly in the tight end position.
• For the Bengals: Trading Hendrickson allows them to reallocate resources and potentially secure a reliable tight end in Kmet. The additional draft picks would provide flexibility to address other areas of need.

This proposed trade between the Bears and Bengals represents a significant shift in both teams’ strategies. While the Bears aim to strengthen their defense, the Bengals look to rebuild and reallocate resources. As negotiations continue, the outcome of this trade could have lasting implications for both franchises.