Summary

Trey Hendrickson was drafted in the 2017 NFL Draft, Round 3, (pick 103) out of Florida Atlantic University. Hendrickson has developed into one of the most effective pass-rushers in the NFL. Coming into the league as a third-round pick, his early years were solid but not spectacular. Over time, however, he refined his technique, leveraged his high motor, and turned his physical tools into dominant production—especially after joining Cincinnati. His 2024 season was a breakout: He led the league in sacks, consistently pressured quarterbacks, and proved he could be a game-changer on the edge. PFF

Hendrickson’s game is anchored in his quick off-the-snap explosion, his bend and dip around tackles, and his ability to win one-on-one match-ups in pass rush. At the same time, while he is strong in his niche, there remain areas of his game (such as run defense and versatility in certain schemes) where limitations linger. The overall outlook: he is an elite edge rusher with a slightly constrained but still very high ceiling.

Strengths

• Elite pass-rush production & efficiency: In 2024, Hendrickson recorded 18 sacks and 83 pressures, ranking 5th among edge defenders in pass-rush grade (90.4) and 8th overall among his peers. PFF

• Snap reaction and explosiveness: Analysts highlight Hendrickson’s ability to react to the snap quickly, use his dip and bend effectively, and get “under the pads” of offensive tackles. Cincinnati.com

• Motor, effort and durability at a high level: Over his recent seasons he has logged significant snap counts and maintained his production, indicating strong conditioning and drive. PFF

• Technical refinement for a later-blooming pass rusher: Compared to his early career, he has added clearer hand usage, better counter moves and improved his rush-plan execution. SI

• Match-up nightmare for offenses when used aggressively: With his size, speed and bend, he can create mismatches on the edge in pass-rush situations and force offenses to game-plan around him.

Weaknesses

• Run-defense and tackling in space: While very strong as a pass rusher, his run-defense grade (65.9) in 2024 ranked around 67th among edge defenders, suggesting a relative weakness in handling blocks and pursuing in the run game. PFF

• Arm length & block-shedding vs. power: Earlier scouting (from his college years) noted shorter arms and some struggles disengaging big tackles or absorbing double teams in the run threat. SI

• Ceiling vs. those elite “three-down” defenders: Some evaluators argue his strength lies much more in pass-rush than in being a dominant run-stopper or interior disruptor—meaning his versatility is slightly more limited. Indianapolis Star

• Contract/age and risk-of-decline factors: As he enters his 30s, and with his high-level usage and production, questions about long-term durability, peak window and future market value become more relevant. New York Post

Fit & Outlook

Trey Hendrickson is a top-tier pass-rusher with a high impact on games—especially in obvious passing situations. For teams needing edge pressure, he delivers as one of the best in the league today. If he maintains health, continues to refine his world-class pass-rush skills, and perhaps improves his run-defense and versatility slightly, his value remains very high.

However, his ultimate ceiling might be slightly lower than some ultra-versatile defensive ends who dominate both run and pass, and his future value may hinge on fit, usage, contract situation and staying at peak performance. For the Bengals and any contending team, as long as he’s on board and used correctly, he’s a major game-changer.