Commanders Seek Edge Rusher Trey Hendrickson to Fix Biggest Flaw

31-year-old free agent would provide immediate pass-rushing boost for Washington's defense

Feb. 23, 2026 at 8:56pm

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The Washington Commanders are looking to address their biggest weakness heading into the 2026 NFL season - a lack of pass rush. One free agent who could fix that issue is veteran edge rusher Trey Hendrickson, who has recorded 17.5 sacks in each of his last two 17-game seasons. Despite being 31 years old, Hendrickson would provide an immediate boost to the Commanders' defense if they are able to sign him in free agency.

Why it matters

The Commanders struggled to get pressure on opposing quarterbacks in 2025, leading to 12 losses. Signing Hendrickson would dramatically improve their pass rush and make life much harder for offenses facing the Washington defense.

The details

Hendrickson, who will turn 32 in December, has posted a PFF pass-rush grade above 85.0 in five consecutive seasons. In 2023 and 2024, he racked up 17.5 sacks, 61 quarterback hits, and 35 tackles for loss. His 'approximate value' in 2024 was a career-high 15, according to Pro Football Reference. While he dealt with injuries in 2025, Hendrickson is still considered one of the top free agent edge rushers available.

  • Hendrickson will turn 32 years old in December 2026.

The players

Trey Hendrickson

A 31-year-old free agent edge rusher who has recorded 17.5 sacks in each of his last two 17-game seasons.

Jayden Daniels

The Commanders' starting quarterback who missed much of the 2025 season due to injury.

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What they’re saying

“Only one season removed from finishing second in Defensive Player of the Year voting, Hendrickson hits free agency again. This time, as a 31-year-old coming off core muscle surgery. He's a boom-or-bust signing for a team looking to get over the hump.”

— Gregg Rosenthal (NFL.com)

What’s next

The Commanders will need to decide if Hendrickson's injury history and age are worth the potential upside he would provide as a pass-rushing specialist. If they sign him, it could allow them to focus on other areas of need in free agency and the draft.

The takeaway

Signing Trey Hendrickson would be a high-risk, high-reward move for the Commanders, but it could be exactly what their defense needs to improve after a 12-loss season. His ability to get to the quarterback would be a game-changer for a team that struggled to generate consistent pressure in 2025.