Bears Predicted to Trade for All-Pro DT Dexter Lawrence

Acquiring the Giants' star defensive tackle could transform Chicago's defense.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 8:36pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the forceful movements of a defensive lineman bursting through the offensive line, with sharp, overlapping shapes and planes conveying the dynamic energy of the play.An explosive cubist illustration captures the raw power and intensity of an elite defensive tackle disrupting the line of scrimmage.Chicago Today

The Chicago Bears are predicted to trade for New York Giants All-Pro defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence in an effort to bolster their struggling defense. Lawrence, a dominant interior lineman, would provide a significant boost to the Bears' run defense and pass rush, complementing emerging star Gervon Dexter Sr. on the defensive line.

Why it matters

The Bears' defense was a major weakness in 2025, ranking 29th in the NFL. Improving the defensive line is crucial for Chicago to take the next step and become a true contender in the NFC. Adding an elite talent like Lawrence could transform the Bears' defense and help them compete with the top teams in the league.

The details

According to reports, the Bears would send a 2026 2nd-round pick and a 2026 4th-round pick to the Giants in exchange for Lawrence. The 28-year-old All-Pro defensive tackle had 27 QB hurries last season, 15 more than the next Giants DT. He was also first on the team in total tackles (32) in the run game for the interior group, despite facing one of the highest double-team rates in the league.

  • The Bears finished the 2025 season with an 11-6 record, winning the NFC North before losing in the Divisional Round of the playoffs.
  • The Giants recently hired John Harbaugh as their new head coach, who has stated he believes the team can keep Lawrence in New York.

The players

Dexter Lawrence

A 28-year-old All-Pro defensive tackle for the New York Giants, known for his dominant interior play and ability to stuff the run and pressure the quarterback.

Gervon Dexter Sr.

An emerging pass-rushing defensive tackle for the Chicago Bears, who has recorded 11 sacks over the last two seasons.

Ben Johnson

The head coach of the Chicago Bears, who helped the team's offense take a significant leap forward in 2025.

Caleb Williams

The second-year quarterback for the Chicago Bears, who had a breakout season in 2025 under Johnson's guidance.

Colston Loveland

A young, emerging offensive standout for the Chicago Bears.

Luther Burden

Another young, emerging offensive player for the Chicago Bears.

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What they’re saying

“The Bears need more help on the defensive line. Lawrence can provide that and complement Gervon Dexter Sr., who's emerged as a pass-rusher with 11 sacks over the last two seasons.”

— Moe Moton, Bleacher Report Writer

“Between Lawrence and Dexter, the Bears would have over 650 pounds of manpower on the interior of their defensive front. Chicago's run defense could improve from 27th in yards allowed to one of the league's most stout units with that big-man combination at defensive tackle.”

— Moe Moton, Bleacher Report Writer

What’s next

The Bears and Giants will need to negotiate a trade agreement for Dexter Lawrence, with the reported asking price being a 2026 2nd-round pick and a 2026 4th-round pick.

The takeaway

Acquiring Dexter Lawrence would be a game-changing move for the Chicago Bears, providing them with an elite defensive tackle to anchor their front seven and transform their struggling defense. If the Bears can pull off this trade, it could be the key to taking their team to the next level and becoming a true Super Bowl contender.