Rams Shouldn't Trade for Giants' Dexter Lawrence

The Los Angeles Rams have already made their big offseason move, acquiring CB Trent McDuffie, and don't need to overpay for DT Dexter Lawrence.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 8:23pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the collision of two defensive lines, conveying the intensity and complexity of the strategic decision facing the Rams regarding a potential trade for Dexter Lawrence.A cubist interpretation of the clash between the Rams' and Giants' defensive lines, highlighting the strategic considerations behind a potential trade for Dexter Lawrence.Los Angeles Today

The Los Angeles Rams have been one of the most aggressive teams in the NFL, trading for star cornerback Trent McDuffie and signing him to a big contract extension. While the Rams could look to further bolster their defense by trading for New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence, who has requested a trade, it doesn't make sense for the Rams to give up significant draft capital for Lawrence when they have other priorities like extending wide receiver Puka Nacua.

Why it matters

The Rams have already made their big splash move of the offseason by acquiring McDuffie, and they need to be careful about overspending on another high-priced defensive player when they have other important contracts to consider. Giving up a valuable first-round pick for Lawrence, even though he is an elite talent, would be an irresponsible use of their resources.

The details

Lawrence is one of the best defensive tackles in the NFL, but the Rams already have a solid starter in Poona Ford at that position. While Lawrence would be an upgrade, the Rams would likely have to give up their first-round pick, which is the 13th overall selection, to acquire him. That's too steep a price for a team that has already made a big move this offseason and needs to think about extending other key players like Nacua.

  • The Rams traded for CB Trent McDuffie and signed him to a contract extension earlier this offseason.
  • The Giants' offseason workout program opens on Tuesday, April 7, 2026.

The players

Dexter Lawrence

An All-Pro defensive tackle for the New York Giants who has requested a trade, seeking a bigger contract and a chance to play for a contender.

Trent McDuffie

A star cornerback the Rams traded for and signed to a contract extension this offseason, bolstering their secondary.

Puka Nacua

A wide receiver for the Rams who the team needs to consider extending as they look to keep their core players together.

Poona Ford

The Rams' current starting defensive tackle, who provides solid production at a lower cost than Lawrence.

Les Snead

The aggressive general manager of the Los Angeles Rams, known for making bold trades to improve his team.

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What they’re saying

“Giants All-Pro defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence has requested a trade and he will not be participating in the team's off-season workout program that opens Tuesday.”

— Adam Schefter, ESPN Reporter

What’s next

The Giants will need to decide whether to grant Lawrence's trade request or try to work out a new contract with him before the start of the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The Rams have already made their big offseason move by acquiring Trent McDuffie, and they need to be prudent with their remaining resources as they look to extend other key players like Puka Nacua. Giving up a valuable first-round pick for Dexter Lawrence, even though he is an elite talent, would be an irresponsible use of their assets.