The Indianapolis Colts had a rollercoaster of a 2025 season, showing flashes of brilliance before faltering in the second half to finish 8-9 and miss the playoffs. Now, their eyes are set on the offseason, aiming to build a resilient roster that can sustain success throughout the year. The journey to improvement kicks off with free agency, where they have their sights set on key additions.
Among the potential targets, one name stands out: Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson. ESPN analyst Matt Bowen has ranked Hendrickson as the NFL’s top free agent for 2026, and he believes Indianapolis is the perfect fit for the star defender.
Why Trey Hendrickson Fits Perfectly in Indianapolis
The Colts’ defense is in dire need of pass-rush reinforcement, and Hendrickson fits the bill perfectly. With his former coach Lou Anarumo now serving as the Colts' defensive coordinator, the synergy is undeniable. Bowen notes, “Colts general manager Chris Ballard could make a splash move in landing the top free agent on our board.”
Last season, the Colts recorded 39 sacks, placing them 15th in the league. Strengthening the defensive front is crucial for a team with aspirations to win now.
Hendrickson, a seasoned veteran with nine years in the league, spent the last five with the Bengals. Although injuries limited him last season to four sacks and 16 tackles over seven games, his previous four Pro Bowl appearances underscore his capabilities.
In 2023 and 2024, he tallied an impressive 17.5 sacks each season. At 31, Hendrickson is poised to bring his prowess to a new team.
For the Colts, adding Hendrickson could be transformative. Their defense allowed 349.8 yards per game (23rd) and 24.2 points per game (21st) last season. While there are promising elements within the unit, Hendrickson’s arrival could address significant gaps and elevate the team’s defensive performance.