49ers, Bengals in Talks to Trade for Star Edge Rusher — Viewed as a Major Win for San Francisco

San Francisco, CA — October 14, 2025

The San Francisco 49ers and Cincinnati Bengals are reportedly in active discussions over a potential blockbuster trade involving star edge rusher Trey Hendrickson

, a move that could significantly reshape the 49ers’ defense following Nick Bosa’s season-ending injury.

League insiders, including CBS Sports’ Cody Benjamin, believe San Francisco is aggressively pursuing Hendrickson to stabilize its defensive front after losing both

Bosa and Fred Warner to injuries. The potential deal is being described as a “major win” for the Niners, who remain in Super Bowl contention at 4–2 despite their recent setbacks.

Trade Structure (Under Discussion):

49ers receive: Edge rusher Trey Hendrickson
Bengals receive: 2026 second-round pick (tentative)

Hendrickson, 30, is one of the league’s premier pass rushers, leading the NFL with

35 sacks between 2023 and 2024 and continuing his dominant form this season. Though he recently reached a short-term contract resolution with Cincinnati, sources indicate he’s still unhappy about not securing a long-term extension
, fueling trade speculation.

According to The Athletic’s Dianna Russini, San Francisco has already begun exploring the market:

“The 49ers are canvassing for top-tier pass rushers to fill the void left by Nick Bosa’s injury. I expect them to call Cincinnati about Trey Hendrickson.”

For the Bengals, who sit at 2–4 and face an uncertain future amid Joe Burrow’s injury struggles, moving Hendrickson could represent the start of a soft rebuild and a chance to regain valuable draft capital.

From the 49ers’ perspective, this move could be transformative — pairing Hendrickson with defensive tackle Javon Hargrave would instantly restore San Francisco’s front-seven dominance and keep them in the NFC title conversation.

If finalized, this trade would mark one of the most impactful midseason acquisitions of 2025 — a clear signal that John Lynch and Kyle Shanahan are all-in on keeping the 49ers’ championship window wide open.

Dallas Cowboys Weigh Practice Squad Addition of Shilo Sanders, Pending Medical Approval Despite Family Drama

The Dallas Cowboys are weighing a move to bolster their secondary depth, agreeing in principle to bring in safety Shilo Sanders. The addition is pending medical approval, leaving the deal incomplete until doctors clear him.

Sanders, the 25-year-old son of NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, enters the NFL with a mix of playmaking ability and controversy. His career has been defined by highlight moments, injuries, and family drama.

Undrafted in 2025, Sanders signed with Tampa Bay and appeared in three preseason games. His stint ended after an ejection versus Buffalo for unnecessary roughness, prompting the Buccaneers to waive him before final roster cuts.

Despite that misstep, Dallas sees developmental potential. Sanders posted 161 tackles, 11 interceptions, and six forced fumbles across 41 college games. His 2023 season at Colorado stood out as he emerged as the team’s top tackler.

The Cowboys’ defensive backfield has been under evaluation, with depth behind starters needing reinforcement. Sanders’ ability to contribute as a safety, slot defender, and on special teams makes him an appealing option for the practice squad.

Still, medical clearance is the key factor. Sanders has battled injuries, including an ACL tear in 2022 and recurring setbacks in 2024. Team doctors will determine if his health supports a signing.

The family spotlight also adds drama. As Deion Sanders’ son and Shedeur’s older brother, Shilo carries expectations that extend beyond football. For Dallas, signing him would blend upside with unavoidable attention from the national media.

For Sanders, this marks another opportunity to establish himself outside his father’s shadow. If he passes the medical exam, Dallas could provide the platform for him to grow and contribute meaningfully in the NFL.