NFL Analyst Suggests Jaguars as Potential Dexter Lawrence Trade Destination

The Jacksonville Jaguars could have the draft capital to acquire the Giants' defensive tackle, who has requested a new contract.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 5:13pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the explosive action of a defensive tackle making a play, with sharp planes of color and form capturing the raw energy of the moment.A cubist interpretation of a defensive tackle disrupting the offense, reflecting the Jaguars' potential interest in acquiring Dexter Lawrence to bolster their defensive front.Today in Jacksonville

NFL analyst Kevin Patra has identified the Jacksonville Jaguars as a potential trade destination for New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence. While the Jaguars have not actively considered a trade for Lawrence, they have the draft capital and a need to upgrade their interior defensive line. Patra notes that the Jaguars would need to work out a new contract for Lawrence, who is seeking a pay raise, but acquiring the 2019 first-round pick could provide a significant boost to their defensive front.

Why it matters

The Jaguars are looking to build on their AFC South division title in 2026 and adding a talented player like Dexter Lawrence could help them improve their pass rush and interior defensive line. However, the Giants' reluctance to renegotiate Lawrence's contract has been a sticking point, and the Jaguars would need to be willing to meet his financial demands in order to complete a trade.

The details

NFL Media analyst Kevin Patra has identified the Jacksonville Jaguars as a potential trade destination for New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence. Patra notes that the Jaguars have the draft capital, including 11 total picks, to make a deal happen, even though they don't have a first-round selection. Jaguars general manager James Gladstone has shown a willingness to be aggressive in the trade market, having acquired several key players via trade in recent seasons. While the Jaguars have not actively considered trading for Lawrence, Patra argues that adding the 2019 first-round pick could provide a significant boost to their defensive front, especially when paired with Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker. However, the Jaguars would need to work out a new contract for Lawrence, who is seeking a pay raise from his current $20 million salary for 2026.

  • Dexter Lawrence requested a trade from the New York Giants in 2026.

The players

Dexter Lawrence

A defensive tackle for the New York Giants who was a first-round pick in 2019 and is seeking a new contract.

James Gladstone

The general manager of the Jacksonville Jaguars, who has shown a willingness to be aggressive in the trade market.

John Harbaugh

The head coach of the New York Giants.

Kevin Patra

An NFL analyst who identified the Jaguars as a potential trade destination for Dexter Lawrence.

Josh Hines-Allen

A defensive tackle for the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Travon Walker

A defensive end for the Jacksonville Jaguars who recently signed a new contract.

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What they’re saying

“Jacksonville doesn't have a first-round pick, but general manager James Gladstone has 11 draft picks to throw around, including a second-rounder and three third-round picks. The GM has been fearless in his moves since taking over, so a trade for Lawrence wouldn't be out of his comfort zone.”

— Kevin Patra, NFL Analyst

“The Jaguars, like others, would have to make the money situation work, but adding a penetrator alongside Josh Hines-Allen and newly paid Travon Walker would upgrade the Jags' ability to affect the quarterback in 2026. The AFC South champs have been quiet this offseason. Gladstone could change that in one phone call.”

— Kevin Patra, NFL Analyst

What’s next

The Jaguars and Giants would need to agree on the trade terms and compensation, and the Jaguars would need to negotiate a new contract with Dexter Lawrence that meets his demands.

The takeaway

The Jaguars have the draft capital and a need to upgrade their interior defensive line, making them a logical trade partner for the Giants and Dexter Lawrence. However, the financial considerations and the Giants' willingness to trade Lawrence will be key factors in determining if a deal can be reached.