Giants Considering Dexter Lawrence Trade to Chargers

Harbaugh brothers could connect on deal involving star defensive tackle

Apr. 18, 2026 at 5:25pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the fractured, multi-angled movements of a defensive line, capturing the raw power and intensity of NFL football in an abstract, deconstructed style.A potential blockbuster trade involving star defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence could reshape the Giants' and Chargers' rosters ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.Los Angeles Today

The New York Giants are reportedly at an impasse in contract extension talks with star defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence, leading to speculation that the team could look to trade him. One potential landing spot is the Los Angeles Chargers, where Lawrence's former Ravens coach John Harbaugh could convince his brother Jim to make a deal.

Why it matters

Lawrence is a three-time Pro Bowler who would significantly bolster the Chargers' defensive line, but the Giants may be looking to move on if they can't reach an agreement on a new contract. A trade would allow the Giants to recoup valuable draft capital while shedding Lawrence's hefty salary demands.

The details

According to reports, the Giants and Lawrence have reached an impasse in contract extension talks, leading to the player's trade request. New Giants head coach John Harbaugh may be open to dealing Lawrence, potentially to the Chargers where his brother Jim is the head coach. One proposed deal would send the Chargers' first-round pick (No. 22 overall) and wide receiver Quentin Johnston to the Giants in exchange for Lawrence.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is just days away.

The players

Dexter Lawrence

A three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle for the New York Giants who has requested a trade or contract extension.

John Harbaugh

The current head coach of the New York Giants, who previously coached Dexter Lawrence with the Baltimore Ravens.

Jim Harbaugh

The current head coach of the Los Angeles Chargers, and the brother of Giants head coach John Harbaugh.

Joe Schoen

The general manager of the New York Giants.

Quentin Johnston

A wide receiver for the Los Angeles Chargers who has been the subject of trade rumors this offseason.

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What they’re saying

“Three months into his tenure as Giants head coach, John Harbaugh has encountered his first dilemma, with superstar DT Dexter Lawrence asking to be traded. Immediately following Lawrence's request, Harbaugh publicly stated the team's desire to repair the relationship, but said 'there's business involved.' It appears that business has gone south, with NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reporting on Tuesday that the Giants have reached an impasse in extension talks with the three-time Pro Bowler. Maybe it's time for John to pick up the phone and call his brother. For counsel? No, to make a deal!”

— Gennaro Filice, NFL.com writer

What’s next

The Giants and Chargers will need to continue negotiations to determine if a trade involving Dexter Lawrence can be finalized before the 2026 NFL Draft.

The takeaway

This potential trade highlights the complex business decisions facing NFL teams, as they must balance the desire to retain star players with the need to manage salary cap constraints and roster needs. The Harbaugh brothers connection adds an intriguing personal element to the negotiations.