Trey Hendrickson to Lions: Missed Deals We Wanted at NFL Trade Deadline
The NFL trade deadline has come and gone, leaving fans buzzing about potential deals that didn’t materialize. Among the most intriguing rumored trades was Trey Hendrickson’s move to the Detroit Lions, which raised eyebrows in the football community.
Trey Hendrickson’s Value to the Lions
The Cincinnati Bengals chose not to accept offers for Hendrickson, a 31-year-old pass rusher with significant experience. Despite the Bengals’ playoff hopes dwindling, they opted to retain a player who is set to be a free agent after the season. This decision has raised questions about their strategy moving forward.
For the Lions, acquiring Hendrickson would have provided a major boost to their defensive line. With many high-priced players already on their roster, the Lions were careful not to engage in a bidding war, mindful of their draft picks and salary cap implications.
Missed Opportunities at the Trade Deadline
Several notable players were rumored to be on the move but ultimately remained with their respective teams. Here are five significant potential trades that did not happen:
- Mark Andrews or David Njoku to the Green Bay Packers: With Tucker Kraft sidelined, the Packers missed an opportunity to bolster their tight end position.
- Trey Hendrickson to the Detroit Lions: As mentioned, Hendrickson’s retention by the Bengals left many questioning their judgment.
- Jakobi Meyers to the Buffalo Bills: Meyers did move, but not to the Bills, who needed a reliable target for Josh Allen.
- Breece Hall to the Kansas City Chiefs: This move would have significantly strengthened the Chiefs’ offensive capabilities.
- Garrett Wilson to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers: While the Jets extended Wilson’s contract, a trade could have revitalized the Buccaneers’ struggling offense.
Conclusion
The 2023 NFL trade deadline generated excitement and speculation but ultimately left fans contemplating what could have been. The Lions’ interest in Hendrickson exemplifies the strategic moves teams consider to enhance their rosters. As teams adjust and plan for the future, the coming weeks will reveal the ramifications of the decisions made during this deadline.
