According to reports from The Athletic and CBS Sports, the San Francisco 49ers are actively exploring trade options to reinforce their defensive front after devastating news confirmed that Nick Bosa will miss the rest of the 2025 season with a torn ACL. Sources indicate the team’s top target is Cincinnati Bengals’ All-Pro edge rusher Trey Hendrickson, a four-time Pro Bowler currently valued at around $96 million.

Hendrickson, who has been one of the league’s most dominant pass rushers over the past few seasons, is reportedly open to a trade after contract tensions with the Bengals earlier this year. Cincinnati, struggling in the AFC North amid Joe Burrow’s absence, might be willing to part ways for the right draft capital.

For the 49ers, losing Bosa—a defensive cornerstone and the emotional leader of the team—has created an urgent need for a proven pass rusher who can immediately fill that void. According to The Athletic, San Francisco is prepared to offer a 2026 second-round pick and a rotational defensive lineman as part of the trade package.

Financially, the move won’t be simple. With big-money contracts already allocated to Christian McCaffrey, Deebo Samuel, and Fred Warner, the Niners will likely need to restructure deals or spread Hendrickson’s salary over multiple years with a heavy signing bonus. However, insiders describe this as a “win-now gamble” for a franchise still chasing Super Bowl redemption.

Head coach Kyle Shanahan addressed the speculation after Friday’s practice with a subtle but telling remark:

“Trey is the kind of player every coach wants—strong, relentless, and always playing with a never-give-up spirit,” Shanahan shared with a knowing smile when asked about the trade rumors. “I’m really impressed by the way he pressures quarterbacks, and if there’s a chance to work with someone like that… I don’t think anyone on our team would want to miss out”.

If the deal materializes, Hendrickson could pair with Arik Armstead to form one of the NFC’s most feared duos—reviving San Francisco’s defensive identity and keeping their playoff hopes alive in a turbulent season.

Faithful fans are now holding their breath, waiting to see if Trey Hendrickson will soon wear the red and gold.