Bengals Acquire Dexter Lawrence, Trading No. 10 Pick
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Cincinnati — The Bengals traded the No. 10 overall pick to the New York Giants on Saturday, acquiring three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence ahead of next week's 2026 NFL draft. ESPN's Adam Schefter reported the deal as unprecedented for the franchise, and Lawrence completed a physical before both teams finalized the transaction on Sunday.
Cincinnati officials said on Sunday that Lawrence signed a one-year contract extension after the trade. Director of player personnel Duke Tobin and coach Zac Taylor stated the team will pursue additional defensive upgrades in the draft, noting last season's defensive rankings and the need to address run defense and pressure generation.
More context
Timeline
- 1. 2023: Lawrence signs four-year, $90 million extension with the Giants.
- 2. Early 2026: Lawrence requests a trade amid contract negotiations.
- 3. Saturday (weekend): Bengals and Giants agree to trade the No. 10 pick for Lawrence.
- 4. Sunday: Lawrence passes physical and signs a one-year contract extension with Cincinnati.
- 5. Following weekend: Bengals announce plans to pursue further defensive upgrades in the 2026 draft.
Why it matters
If you're a Bengals fan, this is big. Lawrence is a proven defensive powerhouse. His arrival could boost the team's run defense and pressure generation. Keep an eye on the upcoming draft. The Bengals plan more defensive upgrades.
Sources
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