After outperforming expectations in 2024, the Los Angeles Chargers have stayed relatively quiet this offseason. They've been patient, careful not to fall into the trap that many fast-rising teams before them have been victim to.
That might all get thrown out the window if they can bring in Trey Hendrickson. The Cincinnati Bengals are willing to trade away their superstar pass rusher as contract negotiations seem to be at a standstill.
Their asking price is high, but the Chargers might just be in a position to pay it.
Chargers could meet Bengals' demands for Trey Hendrickson
A young defensive player and a first-round pick. That's what the Bengals want in return for Hendrickson, per The Athletic's Dianna Russini. The steep price will likely drive some interested teams away. It's becoming more and more rare to trade away a first-round pick, especially for an aging veteran.
But Hendrickson isn't just any aging veteran. He led the NFL in sacks last season with 17.5. This is an elite edge rusher at the top of his game, and he's up for the bidding. It might be time for the Chargers to consider taking the swing.
Hendrickson and Khalil Mack would immediately become the best edge duo in the league, full stop. With Hendrickson's pass-rushing prowess and Mack's ability to shut down the run, the Chargers' front would feel unstoppable. Yes, both players are in their 30s. But both are still playing at a high level.
LA has a solid core of young talent. It would still hurt to give up a first-round pick, but this team isn't as desperate for youth as some others, especially on offense. As for the young defender, the Chargers could have the perfect player to offer.
It wouldn't be wise to give up Tuli Tuipulotu, given his current trajectory. Cam Hart or Tarheeb Still likely being shipped off would leave the cornerback room lacking depth. But LA has plenty of depth at safety. Perhaps enough to let Alohi Gilman go.
Gilman might not be the high-ceiling young defender the Bengals are looking for, but they probably won't get a much better offer. Cincinnati could use another defensive back, as their current secondary is unsettled with new defensive coordinator Al Golden coming in.
Elijah Molden could step in and start for the Chargers without being an obvious weak link. With Gilman entering the last year of his contract, Molden is likely set to replace him in the near future anyway. LA's secondary talent and Jesse Minter's scheme should be enough to make up for the impact of losing Gilman.
It's far-fetched to think that the Chargers would pull the trigger on this move. But if they do, they could be set up to truly contend for a Super Bowl.