Bengals Acquire Star DT Dexter Lawrence in Historic Trade
The Cincinnati Bengals have acquired defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence from the New York Giants in exchange for the 10th overall selection in the 2025 NFL Draft. This trade marks a significant roster move for the Bengals, who had not traded a first-round pick since 1989.
Trade Details
- The Cincinnati Bengals sent their first-round pick (10th overall) in the 2025 NFL Draft to the New York Giants.
- In return, the Bengals received defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence.
- This is the first time in franchise history the Bengals have traded a first-round pick directly for a player.
- Lawrence, who was the 17th overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, is entering his eighth NFL season.
Reports indicate Lawrence requested a trade from the Giants two weeks prior when contract negotiations stalled and that he will receive a new contract with his new team.
According to one source, Lawrence's new contract with the Bengals will pay him $22 million in 2026 and $25 million in 2027. The player selected 10th overall in the 2025 draft, Colston Loveland, signed a four-year contract worth $26.36 million.
Team Context and Rationale
The Bengals' decision to trade the pick comes amid specific team circumstances. The team's draft board at the 10th overall pick was reportedly running low on impact defensive players.
Statistically, the Bengals' run defense allowed an average of 147.1 rushing yards per game and 5.22 yards per carry during the 2025 season, ranking last and second-last in the NFL, respectively. For comparison, the Giants' run defense—with Lawrence starting all 17 games—allowed 145.3 rushing yards per game and 5.31 yards per carry, ranking second-last and last in the league.
Lawrence is noted as the most decorated interior defensive player the Bengals have acquired since defensive tackle Geno Atkins retired after the 2020 season.
Historical Precedent and Statements
The Bengals had not traded a first-round pick in 37 years. In 1989, they traded out of the first round entirely. Previous notable draft trades involved moving back in the first round to acquire players like tackle Cordy Glenn in 2018 and cornerback Deltha O'Neal in 2004.
Bengals Vice President of Player Personnel Duke Tobin stated the opportunity to acquire Lawrence was "too good to pass up."
Left tackle and team captain Orlando Brown Jr. commented on the move, saying, "I think they're just saying we're trying to win... To add that kind of player to our defense in this division is huge."
One source also notes that Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow has previously expressed impatience with roster flaws. The other three teams in the Bengals' division, the AFC North, will have new head coaches for the 2026 season.