ClutchPoints
The Indianapolis Colts are sitting at 6-1, perched atop the AFC standings as the biggest surprise of the 2025 NFL season. Behind the resurgence of quarterback Daniel Jones, who leads the league in QBR at 79.7, and an explosive offense averaging 33.1 points per game, the Colts have transformed from perennial underachievers into legitimate Super Bowl contenders. But as the November 4 trade deadline approaches, one glaring weakness threatens to derail their championship aspirations: pass rush consistency.
While defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo has worked wonders with the unit overall, ranking eighth in points allowed per game at 20.0, the Colts rank a dismal 29th in passing yards allowed per game at 255.4. The pass rush sits 29th in ESPN’s pass rush win rate statistics entering Week 7, and with Sam Ebulogu sidelined for multiple weeks, second-year edge rusher Laiatu Latu needs a proven bookend opposite him. Enter Cincinnati Bengals’ All-Pro defensive end Trey Hendrickson, a player who has worked extensively with Anarumo during their six years together in Cincinnati and represents the perfect solution to Indianapolis’ most pressing need.
Trey Hendrickson isn’t just another pass rusher—he’s an elite game-wrecker who led the NFL with 17.5 sacks last season and already has four sacks through six games in 2025. The 30-year-old defensive end brings exactly what the Colts desperately need: a proven track record of quarterback disruption, familiarity with Anarumo’s defensive scheme, and championship-caliber production at the most critical position on defense.
The connection between Hendrickson and Anarumo cannot be overstated. During their tenure together in Cincinnati, Hendrickson flourished under Anarumo’s “Mad Scientist” approach, earning four consecutive Pro Bowl selections and an All-Pro nod in 2024. This existing chemistry means Hendrickson could seamlessly integrate into the Colts’ defensive system without the typical learning curve that accompanies midseason acquisitions. For a team making a serious playoff push, this plug-and-play capability is invaluable.
Moreover, Hendrickson’s availability—however slim—stems from contract complications. Despite restructuring his deal to $30 million for 2025, he remains set for unrestricted free agency after this season. The Bengals, sitting at 3-4 and facing an uphill battle in the AFC North, have fielded inquiries from multiple teams including the 49ers, Cowboys, and others. While Cincinnati has publicly stated they won’t trade their best defensive player, the right offer from a contender could change their calculus, especially if they continue to struggle and fall further out of playoff contention.
Hendrickson’s contract structure actually benefits a potential acquiring team. With a $16 million base salary for 2025, the remaining game checks through the trade deadline would amount to approximately $8 million—a manageable figure for the Colts despite their limited $3.97 million in current cap space. Indianapolis could restructure existing contracts or ask Cincinnati to absorb a portion of Hendrickson’s remaining salary to make the financials work.
The real beauty of this deal for the Colts is the rental aspect. Hendrickson hits free agency after the season, meaning Indianapolis...
