Packers Linked to Last-Second Blockbuster Trade to Boost Super Bowl Hopes

The Green Bay Packers are angling to make a move in the NFC, and they certainly have the roster to do it. However, they could still use some help defensively.

Not only do the Packers need a cornerback after parting ways with Jaire Alexander, but they could also stand to improve their pass rush.

Well, Bleacher Report’s Matt Holder may have identified the perfect solution for Green Bay: Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson, who is still embroiled in a contract standoff with his team.

“This would depend on how much money Hendrickson is looking for, but the Packers currently have $35.5 million of cap space available in 2025, per Over The Cap, and need an edge-rusher,” Holder wrote. “… If the Cheeseheads can make the finances work, their Super Bowl odds should see a significant increase by adding last year’s sack leader.”

The Packers are known for being somewhat careful with their finances, and general manager Brian Gutekunst has actually been criticized for being too gunshy in terms of making that one big move to put Green Bay over the top. But could he pull the trigger on a Hendrickson deal?

Hendrickson is unquestionably one of the most dominant defenders in the NFL. He has racked up 17.5 sacks in each of the last two years and finished second in Defensive Player of the Year voting last season. He has made four straight Pro Bowls and also earned a First-Team All-Pro selection in 2024.

The catch, however, is that Hendrickson is 30 years old and will turn 31 during the 2025 campaign. Would the Packers really want to hand him a massive long-term deal given his age? It’s certainly a pickle for Green Bay, as adding Hendrickson could make the Packers Super Bowl favorites. But there is also a chance that the former third-round pick begins to decline sooner rather than later.

More than likely, Hendrickson will agree to some sort of pact to remain in Cincinnati, and even if things go completely south with the Bengals, this just doesn’t seem like a typical Gutekunst move.