Patriots blockbuster trade pitch would shake up AFC hierarchy

The New England Patriots seem to have found their quarterback and spent the offseason surrounding him with talent. They hired Mike Vrabel and added key players to their defense.

The Patriots' big offseason addition was Milton Williams, who signed a four-year, $104 million deal. They also signed Carlton Davis, but NFL.com's Kevin Patra suggested they swing a blockbuster trade for Trey Hendrickson of the Cincinnati Bengals.

"The Bengals are unlikely to be interested in moving Hendrickson, as that's not how they roll," wrote Patra. "However, if there is a divorce, New England is a good new partner. Mike Vrabel could use a legit No. 1 edge to anchor his defense, and the Pats still have cap space. Sure, they've shelled out a lot on D already this offseason, but they should continue to take big swings while Drake Maye is still on a rookie deal. Adding Hendrickson would get them a big stride closer to threatening the Buffalo Bills' divisional dominance."

Hendrickson's contract situation has been a headline all offseason. He is not pleased with the communication between the two sides and has noted that he will not play under his current deal. Spotrac projects him to earn a two-year, $62 million deal.

Hendrickson led the league in sacks last season and has 70.5 sacks since 2020. He is one of the best players in the NFL and was a First-Team All-Pro last season. He is looking for a deal that likely makes him one of the highest-paid defensive players in the league with plenty of guaranteed money.

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Hendrickson's contract situation limits what teams can trade for him. Any suitor would have to be able to pay him what he wants. The Patriots have that kind of money, and adding Hendrickson to Vrabel's defense could suddenly turn them into contenders. In the AFC East, the Bills would have to start thinking about the Patriots dethroning them.

Adding Hendrickson would serve as a warning to the rest of the AFC that the Patriots are ready to contend for a championship with Drake Maye. Williams and Hendrickson would be able to change games up front for the Patriots, and an elite defense can take any team deep into the postseason.

More NFL: Patriots trade pitch would land $90 million 5-time All-Pro from AFC East rival