The San Francisco 49ers made significant investments in overhauling their defensive line this offseason, parting ways with key contributors Javon Hargrave, Maliek Collins, and Leonard Floyd. The team used three draft picks to replace them, including a first-round selection on edge rusher Mykel Williams.
Paired with All-Pro Nick Bosa, the 49ers hope their revamped front will reignite a pass rush that underwhelmed in 2024. Adding to the mix, San Francisco also traded for veteran defensive end Bryce Huff, forming what could be a dangerous trio up front.
However, one NFL writer believes the 49ers shouldn't stop there if they're serious about returning to the Super Bowl. Longtime journalist Mike Fisher of Athlon Sports suggests that the team should pick up the phone and call the Cincinnati Bengals to inquire about the availability of disgruntled pass rusher Trey Hendrickson.
Hendrickson is entering the final year of his contract, set to earn around $16 million in 2025—a relative bargain for a player who has posted 17.5 sacks in each of the past two seasons. Frustrated with his contract situation, Hendrickson has skipped the Bengals' offseason program, and his future in Cincinnati remains uncertain.
Fisher believes that if the Bengals can't repair the relationship, they may look to trade Hendrickson before the season begins, and the 49ers should consider jumping at the chance to land him.
"In theory, Hendrickson would join Nick Bosa to form one of the most formidable pass rush pairings in the NFL," Fisher wrote. "... and to Niners fans, it would feel like a potential Super Bowl move."
As with most trade speculation involving the 49ers, the conversation quickly turns to salary cap space. Despite recently signing quarterback Brock Purdy, tight end George Kittle, and linebacker Fred Warner to extensions, the team still holds an estimated $45.7 million in cap space.
However, much of that money is earmarked for the future. While Purdy's 2025 cap hit is just $9.1 million, it increases to $24 million in 2026 and spikes to $57.6 million in 2028, highlighting how cap flexibility can quickly become limited.
Fisher also does not mention the Huff acquisition. The edge rusher is expected to play a key role in 2025. Still, Hendrickson is on another level when it comes to disrupting the passer.
Yes, bringing in Hendrickson would reduce early opportunities for rookie Williams, but Fisher argues there are more than enough snaps—and sacks—to go around. And the 49ers have never hesitated to invest heavily in their pass rush.
"The Niners have their fearsome tandem, and Williams deserves his shot in the spotlight," Fisher added. "But as a Super Bowl move? A call to Cincy is merited."
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