Detroit Lions general manager Brad Holmes has frequently emphasized the challenge in arranging trades that satisfy both teams involved. On 97.1 The Ticket, host Mike Valenti discussed the possibility of trading Brian Branch, a young Lions defensive back, to acquire Trey Hendrickson from the Cincinnati Bengals, considering it a move that could significantly impact the Lions’ defense.
Valenti stressed that only a few players on the Lions roster are absolutely untouchable, such as Penei Sewell, the quarterback, Aidan Hutchinson, and perhaps some others. Yet when it comes to Branch and linebacker Jack Campbell, he suggested these players could enter trade discussions if the return is worthy.
Evaluating the Value of Brian Branch and Jack Campbell in Trade Talks
Valenti pointed out the Bengals’ recent decision to release linebacker Germaine Pratt, their team captain, highlighting their need for defensive players at that position. This context makes the idea of Detroit parting with Jack Campbell or Brian Branch to secure Trey Hendrickson more plausible. Hendrickson led the league in sacks last season and is considered an All-Pro player.
“There are very few players that are non starters for me, right? Very few players are untradeable. I’m not trading Penei Sewell. I’m not trading my quarterback. You know what I mean. Those players are untouchable, right? I’m not trading Aidan Hutchinson,”
said Valenti.
“When you get down to it, you have to look a little bit ahead, which is, ‘Am I going to pay Brian Branch? Jack Campbell is another guy.’ You can say it’s Jack Campbell’s defense, but if the Bengals called — and mind you, the Bengals got rid of Germaine Pratt, their team captain and a linebacker. They have a need at linebacker. If they called and asked for Jack Campbell and a first-round pick, it’s not supposed to be an easy decision, based on acquiring an All-Pro guy who led the league in sacks last year.”
Mike Valenti’s Clear Stance on Making the Trade
In a direct response to whether he would support trading what it takes for Trey Hendrickson, Valenti expressed firm agreement despite his fondness for Brian Branch. He acknowledged the potential high cost but underscored the strategic advantage of acquiring a proven pass rusher to boost Detroit’s defense.
“I’m a yes. I’m not flippant about it, I love Brian Branch, but yeah, I’d do that deal.”
—Mike Valenti, 97.1 The Ticket host
Financial Considerations Behind the Trade Proposal
One major factor Valenti considered is the salary Detroit would eventually have to pay Brian Branch when his rookie contract ends. Since the Lions have already committed to a long-term contract with safety Kerby Joseph, adding another significant salary could strain their payroll flexibility.
“You do have to pay him and pay him real money. Now that doesn’t bother me. Where there’s a will, there’s a way. But, I think it’s asking the people (callers) is more impactful, because for me, I don’t get attached to players. Players are commodities to me. … They’re production quotients that I’m willing to trade,”
Valenti stated.
“I’d trade my mother for a Super Bowl.”
Comparing the Impact of Branch Versus Hendrickson on the Team
Valenti highlighted the difference in impact between retaining Brian Branch and acquiring Hendrickson for the lineup. He believes no player selected at 26th in the draft, including Branch, could offer the kind of consistent influence on the field that Hendrickson’s presence would bring, especially in the defense’s ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks.
“Im not the person to talk to. Talking to the listener, they’re going to have more of an emotional approach, right? For me, it’s a no-brainer, because ultimately, there is nothing that Brian Branch will do that would remotely compare, there is nothing the 26th pick in the draft will do that will remotely compare to the down in, play-in and play-out effect, of reinvesting in Aidan Hutchinson that a Trey Hendrickson trade would have.”
Organizational Philosophy and Future Outlook on Aggressive Moves
Brad Holmes has publicly shared the Lions’ success in building through the draft and noted the team’s readiness to be aggressive when necessary. However, Valenti questioned the team’s urgency to win immediately, as opposed to maintaining steady progress and media attention.
“I don’t think they would. I think they’re happy paying increased prices and just staying good. And they’re happy ESPN talks about them. I don’t think they’re all in to win a Super Bowl.”
The discussion underscores a critical decision point for Detroit, balancing loyalty to young talent like Brian Branch against the immediate upgrade Trey Hendrickson could bring. The trade could reshape the Lions’ defensive front and influence their competitive trajectory in the coming seasons.