BREAKING: Colts-Trey Hendrickson Trade with Bengals was granted permission to seek a trade, as the two sides remain far apart in contract talks with one year and $18.7 million remaining on his current deal.

The Indianapolis Colts aren’t usually aggressive in the trade market for star players, but a major talent is now available, and the fit is too good for them to ignore.

Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson has been given permission to seek a trade after failing to reach a contract extension, with one year and $18.7 million remaining on his current deal.

Hendrickson just led the NFL with 17.5 sacks, earning a First-Team All-Pro selection. Since 2023, his 35.0 sacks are the most in the league. Understandably, he’s seeking a contract that reflects his status as one of the NFL’s top pass rushers.

The Colts have emerged as a natural landing spot, with NFL insiders Ian Rapoport and Ari Meirov both linking them to Hendrickson. His connection to Indianapolis runs deep—new Colts defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo previously coached him in Cincinnati and has strong ties to many of his former players. Additionally, Colts defensive line coach Charlie Partridge coached Hendrickson in college at Florida Atlantic.

Brent Sobleski of Bleacher Report recently projected trade packages for Hendrickson, including one involving the Colts:

Proposed Trade:

• Bengals receive: 2025 14th overall and second-round picks, 2026 fourth-round pick
• Colts receive: Edge Trey Hendrickson, linebacker Germaine Pratt, 2025 17th overall and third-round picks

This deal makes sense for both teams. The Bengals could clear salary and improve their draft position, while the Colts would immediately bolster their defense. Hendrickson and Pratt would strengthen a unit that finished among the league’s worst last season. Pratt, who also requested a trade, has a strong relationship with Anarumo, making his inclusion logical.

Colts general manager Chris Ballard and head coach Shane Steichen are under pressure to show progress in 2024, or the organization could make leadership changes in 2026. Adding Hendrickson and Pratt would be a significant step toward defensive improvement.

Hendrickson (6’4″, 270, 30 years old) remains in his prime and has made four consecutive Pro Bowls. He would provide an instant upgrade to the Colts’ pass rush alongside DeForest Buckner while also solidifying their run defense.

With free agent Dayo Odeyingbo likely to earn a big contract elsewhere, Kwity Paye entering the final year of his deal, and rookie Laiatu Latu still developing, Hendrickson would give the Colts much-needed stability at defensive end.

If the Colts truly want to take a step forward, these are the types of bold moves they must consider. Not every blockbuster trade makes sense for them—but this one does.