Rams Eye Mid-Season Acquisition of Trey Hendrickson Amid Contract Standoff
The Los Angeles Rams have a well-documented history of making impactful mid-season acquisitions, with notable names like Dante Fowler Jr. and Von Miller playing pivotal roles in the team’s recent successes. As the Cincinnati Bengals navigate a contract standoff with defensive end Trey Hendrickson, the Rams may find themselves in a prime position to pursue the standout player as a high-cost, short-term rental.
Hendrickson’s Contract Situation
Currently, Hendrickson carries an $18.6 million cap hit, a figure that allows the Rams to operate comfortably within their financial parameters. With only one year remaining on his contract, the Rams would face no long-term financial obligations should they choose to part ways with him after the season. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler provided insight into Hendrickson’s ongoing negotiations, highlighting the complexities of the situation.
“It’s been a little sticky for sure, but they have resumed talks in recent weeks,” Fowler noted. “They have been in communication, that is a good sign. It has not led to a deal as of yet, but Cincinnati’s plan all along has been to sign and extend their three top stars – Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Trey Hendrickson.”
With the Bengals successfully securing extensions for Chase and Higgins, the urgency to retain Hendrickson has only intensified. The 30-year-old defensive end, who recorded 17.5 sacks last season, has been a cornerstone of the Bengals’ defense, making it clear that he seeks more long-term security in any potential deal.
The Rams’ Strategic Gamble
The Rams’ interest in Hendrickson hinges on two critical factors: the Bengals’ performance and their willingness to part with the player. If Cincinnati struggles and finds themselves out of playoff contention as the season progresses, the Rams could capitalize on the situation. However, the challenge lies in the fact that many NFL teams covet Hendrickson, yet few general managers are willing to invest draft capital in a player who will soon hit free agency.
Should the stars align in favor of the Rams, they may have to offer a third-round pick along with an additional late-round selection to surpass the compensation pick the Bengals would receive if they were to let Hendrickson go. Acquiring an elite pass rusher capable of playing both inside and outside would undoubtedly bolster the Rams’ defensive lineup for the remainder of the season.
Historical Precedents
The Rams’ past acquisitions serve as a testament to their strategy of bringing in key players mid-season. Fowler Jr. was instrumental in the Rams’ 2019 NFC Championship victory, while Miller’s contributions helped secure a win in Super Bowl LVI. These successful transactions provide a blueprint for the Rams as they consider the potential benefits of adding Hendrickson to their roster.
As the situation unfolds, the Rams’ front office remains poised to make a calculated gamble that could significantly impact their playoff aspirations. The coming months will reveal whether this gamble pays off, as they watch the Bengals’ season progress and Hendrickson’s contract situation evolve.
