Giants Trade Dexter Lawrence, Dolphins' Draft Plans Shift

The 10th overall pick now belongs to the Cincinnati Bengals, potentially impacting Miami's selections.

Apr. 20, 2026 at 9:00am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the NFL Draft process with fragmented shapes and planes representing players, team logos, and draft picks, conveying the uncertainty and shifting dynamics of the draft order.The Dexter Lawrence trade has created a new dynamic in the 2026 NFL Draft order, forcing the Dolphins to quickly adapt their strategy.Today in Miami

In a surprising move, the New York Giants traded star defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence to the Cincinnati Bengals for the 10th overall pick in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. This pick is just before the Miami Dolphins' selection at 11th overall, potentially altering the Dolphins' draft strategy as the Bengals could now target a different position than originally projected.

Why it matters

The Dexter Lawrence trade shakes up the draft order right before the Dolphins' pick, forcing them to reevaluate their options and potentially adjust their draft plans. The Bengals' new selection could impact which players are available when Miami is on the clock, presenting both opportunities and challenges for the Dolphins' front office.

The details

The Giants sent Dexter Lawrence, a dominant defensive tackle, to the Bengals in exchange for the 10th overall pick. This pick was originally projected to be used by Cincinnati on a defensive player, but now they may target an offensive playmaker or trade down, changing the landscape of the draft board. The Dolphins, picking 11th, will need to quickly adapt their strategy based on who the Bengals select at 10.

  • On Saturday night, the Giants and Bengals completed the trade.

The players

Dexter Lawrence

A star defensive tackle for the New York Giants who was traded to the Cincinnati Bengals.

Cincinnati Bengals

An NFL team that acquired the 10th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft by trading for Dexter Lawrence.

Miami Dolphins

An NFL team that holds the 11th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, which could be impacted by the Bengals' new selection at 10.

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What they’re saying

“That pick happens to be right before the Miami Dolphins select and has the potential to change their draft plans.”

— Kevin Dolney, Author

What’s next

The Dolphins will need to closely monitor the Bengals' selection at 10th overall and quickly adjust their draft strategy accordingly. This could involve targeting a different position or player than originally planned, or potentially trading down to acquire more picks.

The takeaway

The Dexter Lawrence trade has created uncertainty and a new dynamic in the draft order right before the Dolphins' pick. Miami's front office will need to be nimble and adaptable to capitalize on the opportunities or challenges presented by the Bengals' selection at 10, as they look to add top talent to their roster through the 2026 NFL Draft.