Sports Illustrated reports that the New England Patriots have contacted the Cincinnati Bengals about acquiring defensive end Trey Hendrickson. Described as a “superstar,” Hendrickson is now at the center of a trade discussion that could reshape both franchises’ immediate futures.
Patriots Calling Bengals About Superstar Trade

Key Takeaways:
- The Patriots have reached out to the Bengals regarding Trey Hendrickson.
- Hendrickson is characterized in the report as a “superstar.”
- New England is viewed as “a name to watch” in the Hendrickson sweepstakes.
- The story was first published by Sports Illustrated on August 19, 2025.
- No additional details on trade terms have been disclosed.
The Phone Call
Sports Illustrated’s headline—“Patriots Calling Bengals About Superstar Trade”—says it all: New England has placed an exploratory call to Cincinnati regarding defensive end Trey Hendrickson. The move positions the Patriots squarely in the middle of what the outlet calls the “Trey Hendrickson sweepstakes.”
Who Is Trey Hendrickson?
Within the brief report, Hendrickson is labeled a “superstar,” underscoring his stature among NFL pass-rushers. While the article stops short of diving into statistics, that single word signals the significance of any potential deal involving the Bengals defender.
Why New England Is Interested
“The New England Patriots could be a name to watch,” the piece notes, hinting at the franchise’s intent to fortify its roster. The mere fact that New England has reached out suggests a willingness to make a high-profile move if the right terms emerge.
What Happens Next
Details of any possible trade package remain unknown, and neither team has commented publicly. For now, Hendrickson’s future sits at the intersection of speculation and strategy—one phone call away from a blockbuster shift.