Trey Hendrickson to the 49ers? The Game-Changing Trade That Could Shake Up San Francisco

The 49ers’ Search for a Defensive Star

The San Francisco 49ers have made it clear they are looking for a dominant edge rusher. After missing out on Joey Bosa, who signed with the Buffalo Bills, and releasing Leonard Floyd, the team is in desperate need of a player who can elevate their pass rush. Now, with the Cincinnati Bengals granting Trey Hendrickson permission to seek a trade, the 49ers have a golden opportunity to acquire one of the league’s most underrated defensive stars.

Why Hendrickson is Better Than Bosa

Nick Bosa may be the face of the 49ers’ defense, but the numbers tell a different story when comparing him to Hendrickson. Over the past two seasons, Hendrickson has recorded 35 sacks, while Bosa has managed just 19.5. That kind of production speaks for itself. Hendrickson doesn’t just get to the quarterback—he disrupts entire offensive game plans, creating turnovers and forcing teams to adjust their schemes. If the 49ers were to land him, they would arguably have the best pass-rushing duo in the NFL.

The Cost of Greatness

Acquiring Hendrickson wouldn’t just cost the 49ers a draft pick or two—it would also come with a hefty price tag. His contract extension would be significant, making him one of the highest-paid edge rushers in the league. That presents a major challenge for San Francisco, which is already preparing to offer quarterback Brock Purdy a massive new contract.

This creates a dilemma: Can the 49ers afford to pay both Purdy and Hendrickson? The front office has been clear that most of their financial resources this offseason are dedicated to securing Purdy’s future. Adding Hendrickson would likely mean making sacrifices elsewhere.

A Shocking Trade Possibility?

While the 49ers seem committed to Purdy, what if they decided to take a different route? If the team traded Purdy before the NFL Draft, they could afford to bring in Hendrickson and potentially pair him with a more cost-effective quarterback option like Mac Jones. It’s a long shot, but not impossible.

Would the 49ers Make the Move?

In the end, it all comes down to priorities. If the 49ers believe Purdy is their long-term franchise quarterback, they won’t make a move for Hendrickson. But if they are willing to shake things up, this could be a trade that changes the entire landscape of their defense.

One thing is certain—if the 49ers do land Hendrickson, he wouldn’t just be their best edge rusher. He might instantly become their best overall player.