All-Pro Edge Rusher Reportedly Wants to Sign With Buccaneers

NFL insider Adam Schefter says Trey Hendrickson would "love" to join Tampa Bay in free agency.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Cincinnati Bengals All-Pro edge rusher Trey Hendrickson would "love" to sign with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in free agency. Schefter noted that Hendrickson lives in Ponte Vedra, Florida and would prefer to stay in the state, especially with no state income tax. The Buccaneers are seen as a potential frontrunner to land the 4-time Pro Bowler, who led the NFL in sacks in 2024 on his way to earning All-Pro honors.

Why it matters

Adding an elite pass rusher like Hendrickson could turn the Buccaneers into serious NFC contenders. The team already has a talented roster, and landing Hendrickson would give them one of the most formidable defensive fronts in the league.

The details

Hendrickson has posted consecutive seasons with 17.5 sacks each in 2023 and 2024, leading the NFL in sacks in 2024. He is considered one of the most sought-after free agents this offseason, and the Buccaneers are seen as a potential frontrunner to land him due to his preference to stay in Florida and the team's need for a dominant pass rusher.

  • Hendrickson led the NFL in sacks in 2024.
  • Hendrickson earned NFL All-Pro honors in 2024.

The players

Trey Hendrickson

A 4-time Pro Bowl edge rusher for the Cincinnati Bengals who led the NFL in sacks in 2024 and earned All-Pro honors that season.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

An NFL team that is seen as a potential frontrunner to sign Trey Hendrickson in free agency, given his preference to stay in Florida and the team's need for a dominant pass rusher.

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What they’re saying

“I think that he would love to be in Tampa. He lives in Ponte Verde. I don't think the Jaguars have the requisite cap room for him. Tampa would be a great fit. I think in a perfect world, Trey would like to stay in Florida. No state income tax. But, he's also open to going to the best possible situation.”

— Adam Schefter, NFL Insider (Pardon My Take)

What’s next

The Buccaneers will need to work out a contract with Hendrickson during the upcoming free agency period if they want to sign him to their roster.

The takeaway

The Buccaneers have a strong chance of landing one of the NFL's premier pass rushers in Trey Hendrickson, which could elevate their defense and make them a top contender in the NFC next season.