The race to sign star pass rusher Trey Hendrickson has become one of the most watched developments in the 2026 NFL offseason. Following the Cincinnati Bengals‘ decision not to apply the franchise tag, the veteran defensive end officially entered free agency, making him one of the most sought-after players available.
Hendrickson’s entry into free agency immediately sparked interest across the league. At 31 years old, the four-time Pro Bowler has built a reputation as one of the NFL’s elite pass rushers. In 2024, he led the league with 17.5 sacks, alongside 19 tackles for loss and 36 quarterback hits, underscoring his impact on defense.
Despite dealing with injuries during the 2025 season, Hendrickson still recorded four sacks, three tackles for loss, and eight quarterback hits over seven games before undergoing surgery for a core muscle issue. His career totals, including 161 solo tackles, 75 assists, and 81 sacks, highlight why he remains a top defensive asset in the free agency market.
Teams are expected to offer Hendrickson a lucrative multi-year deal, with annual salaries potentially nearing $30 million, fueled by an intense bidding competition. Several organizations have expressed interest, including the Dallas Cowboys and Philadelphia Eagles, both eager to strengthen their defensive lines.
Buffalo Bills Join the Hunt for Elite Pass Rusher
Now, the Buffalo Bills have reportedly entered the bidding war. Syracuse.com’s Ryan Talbot reported that the Bills reached out to Hendrickson while assessing their options in free agency to enhance their defense. This pursuit aligns with Buffalo’s strategic goal of assembling a championship-level defense.
The Bills, who finished 7th in total defense during the 2025 season, have struggled to consistently pressure quarterbacks. Adding Hendrickson, with his proven pass rushing ability, could effectively address this weakness and significantly bolster their defensive front.
Hendrickson’s presence alongside quarterback Josh Allen would offer improved team balance, complementing Buffalo’s strong offensive capabilities with a more formidable defense. This addition could serve as a vital piece in the franchise’s effort to secure its first Super Bowl championship.
Cowboys Consider Moves Following Hendrickson’s Availability
The Dallas Cowboys have also been active in the free agency process following Hendrickson’s availability. As one of the teams closely monitoring his situation, Dallas is weighing options to reinforce their defensive ranks in response to the shifting market.
The competition for Hendrickson’s services involves multiple franchises aware of his value as a cornerstone defender who can change the dynamics of a defensive lineup. The outcome of this pursuit will likely shape defensive strategies for several teams heading into the upcoming season.
Securing Trey Hendrickson would represent a significant upgrade for any team’s defense, potentially altering the balance of power in the league by strengthening pass rush capabilities. For the Bills and others, landing Hendrickson could be the key to making a stronger push toward postseason success and eventual NFL glory.
