Packers Explored Trey Hendrickson Trade Before Acquiring Micah Parsons
GREEN BAY, WI – Prior to finalizing the blockbuster trade that brought Micah Parsons to Green Bay, the Packers engaged in discussions with the Cincinnati Bengals regarding defensive end Trey Hendrickson, sources confirmed Friday. While those talks didn’t progress,they reveal the team’s aggressive pursuit of pass-rushing help this offseason,ultimately culminating in a deal that sent two first-round picks and Rashan Gary to the Dallas Cowboys for the All-Pro linebacker.
The Packers identified bolstering their pass rush as their top priority following a 2024 season where they ranked 25th in the league in sacks. Hendrickson, a proven commodity with double-digit sack totals in each of the last three seasons, initially presented a viable option. However, the Bengals were reportedly unwilling to part with Hendrickson, leading Green Bay to shift its focus to Parsons, whom they view as a generational talent capable of transforming their defence. The trade compensation – two first-round picks and Gary – underscores the Packers’ conviction in Parsons’ potential.
Parsons is expected to make his Packers debut Sunday against the Detroit Lions, despite a facet joint sprain in his back that limited him in practice this week and left him listed as questionable on Friday’s injury report. While his snap count will be managed initially, Parsons will primarily focus on rushing the passer, with a gradual integration into a broader defensive role as his body adjusts.
the Packers have been impressed with Parsons’ early contributions, praising his intelligence, savvy, and leadership.”I’ve never been in a locker room with guys like this,” Parsons said on Thursday. “I came in tuesday for treatment, and I saw almost every guy in the locker room. This is the first time I’ve ever seen this. That shows just how much these guys want to be here. … They just want to be around each other and hang out. That’s vital to have guys that want to come into the building. When you’re around guys like that, it makes it exciting to come to work.”
The pursuit of Parsons was a long-held ambition for the Packers,despite numerous obstacles. The team believes Parsons’ arrival elevates not only their defense but also the entire organization, signaling a commitment to contending for championships.
