Bengals Make Historic Trade, Acquire Dexter Lawrence from Giants

In a franchise-altering move, the Cincinnati Bengals have acquired star defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence from the New York Giants.

The Bengals sent their first-round pick (10th overall) to the Giants in exchange for Lawrence. This transaction marks the first time in franchise history the Bengals have traded a first-round pick directly for a player.

"I think they're just saying we're trying to win, and I think they've been pretty upfront about it the last several years," said left tackle and team captain Orlando Brown Jr., who had advocated for the move.

Background of the Trade

Lawrence, the 17th overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, is entering his eighth NFL season. He requested a trade from the Giants two weeks ago when contract negotiations stalled. Reports have indicated that if Lawrence joined a new team, he would receive a new contract.

The Bengals' decision was influenced by their draft strategy. Their draft board at the 10th overall pick was reportedly running low on impact defensive players. Lawrence is the most decorated interior defensive player the Bengals have acquired since defensive tackle Geno Atkins retired after the 2020 season.

A Franchise First

The trade ends a notable draft drought for the Bengals. The Bengals have not had a first-round pick in 37 years. In 1989, they traded out of the first round and selected running back Eric Ball with a high second-round pick. Ball is now the team's director of player relations.

Previous notable Bengals draft trades include moving back in the first round in 2018 to acquire tackle Cordy Glenn and in 2004 to acquire cornerback Deltha O'Neal and a fourth-round pick.

Team Reaction

The acquisition has generated significant excitement within the team, particularly from the offensive line that will face him in practice. Orlando Brown Jr. offered a vivid assessment of the new addition to the Bengals' defense.

"He's a house, now. I look at this guy as solid as a brick wall. To add that kind of player to our defense in this division is huge. It's exciting. You have to say we're all in."