Colts Emerge as Potential Landing Spot for Bengals' Star Pass Rusher Trey Hendrickson

NFL analyst highlights four key reasons why Indianapolis could be an ideal fit for the free agent defensive end.

Feb. 21, 2026 at 8:15am

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According to recent NFL analysis, the Indianapolis Colts have emerged as a top potential landing spot for Cincinnati Bengals free agent pass rusher Trey Hendrickson. Experts cite the Colts' need to bolster their pass rush, Hendrickson's familiarity with the Colts' defensive coordinator and new defensive line coach, the team's previous interest in the player, and their favorable salary cap situation as key factors that could draw Hendrickson to Indianapolis.

Why it matters

Improving the pass rush is a top priority for the Colts this offseason, as they look to reshape their defensive line and build on a promising 2025 campaign. Landing an elite edge rusher like Hendrickson could significantly boost their chances of competing in the AFC South.

The details

Trey Hendrickson emerged as one of the NFL's most dominant pass rushers during his time with the Bengals, leading the league in sacks in 2024. His familiarity with Colts defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo and new defensive line coach Marion Hobby, who both previously worked with Hendrickson in Cincinnati, could make for a seamless transition to Indianapolis. The Colts also reportedly expressed interest in trading for Hendrickson last offseason, and with ample salary cap space, they are well-positioned to pursue him as a free agent.

  • The Colts reportedly called the Bengals last offseason to inquire about trading for Trey Hendrickson.
  • Hendrickson led the NFL in sacks in the 2024 season.

The players

Trey Hendrickson

A free agent defensive end who has emerged as one of the NFL's top pass rushers, recording a league-leading sack total in 2024 while playing for the Cincinnati Bengals.

Lou Anarumo

The defensive coordinator for the Indianapolis Colts, who previously held the same role with the Cincinnati Bengals and worked closely with Trey Hendrickson.

Marion Hobby

The new defensive line coach for the Indianapolis Colts, who also previously worked with Trey Hendrickson during his time with the Cincinnati Bengals.

Chris Ballard

The general manager of the Indianapolis Colts, who has indicated a more aggressive approach to roster-building this offseason.

Carlie Irsay-Gordon

The owner of the Indianapolis Colts, who has expressed a desire for the team to be more aggressive in their roster-building approach.

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What they’re saying

“Improved pass rush is a need for Colts”

— Paul Bretl, Author

“Hendrickson developed into one of the most disruptive pass rushers in the NFL. This includes leading the league in sacks in 2024. Much of that career success came playing under Lou Anarumo, the now-Colts' defensive coordinator. This would also make Hendrickson's transition to the defensive scheme in Indianapolis quite seamless.”

— Paul Bretl, Author

“Last offseason, when the Bengals were potentially trading Hendrickson, the Colts reportedly called Cincinnati to check in.”

— Paul Bretl, Author

“The Colts are in a good spot, salary-cap-wise, with the 13th-most cap room of any team in the NFL, and there is the opportunity to generate more space if needed.”

— Paul Bretl, Author

“When owner Carlie Irsay-Gordon spoke with the media after the season, she mentioned how Ballard adapted his roster-building approach, which included being more aggressive.”

— Paul Bretl, Author

What’s next

The Colts will need to negotiate a contract with Trey Hendrickson if they wish to sign him as a free agent. The team's salary cap situation and Hendrickson's familiarity with the coaching staff could give Indianapolis an advantage in these negotiations.

The takeaway

The Colts' need to bolster their pass rush, Trey Hendrickson's existing connections to the coaching staff, the team's prior interest, and their favorable salary cap position make Indianapolis an ideal landing spot for the star defensive end as he hits the free agent market.