Giants GM Schoen says 'conversations have been really good' with Dexter Lawrence after trade request

Lawrence signed a four-year, $90-million extension in 2023 but is now the 12th-highest paid defensive tackle in the league.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 10:20pm

A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a defensive lineman in mid-tackle, with sharp planes of dark blue, forest green, and burnt orange colors creating a dynamic, multi-angled visual representation of the physical action.A cubist interpretation of a defensive tackle making a game-changing play, reflecting the complex business dynamics surrounding star players' contract negotiations.East Rutherford Today

New York Giants general manager Joe Schoen said the team has had 'really good' conversations with defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence's representatives after the All-Pro player publicly requested a trade last week. Schoen said they are trying to find a 'resolution' with Lawrence, who is under contract for two more years but is no longer among the highest-paid players at his position.

Why it matters

Lawrence's trade request has put the Giants in a difficult position, as he is a key part of their defensive line but is seeking a new contract. The team will need to balance keeping a talented player happy while also managing their salary cap and roster needs.

The details

Lawrence signed a four-year, $90-million extension with the Giants in 2023, making him the third-highest paid defensive tackle at the time. However, he has since dropped to 12th on that list, leading to his trade request. Schoen said the team has been in communication with Lawrence's representatives to try and find a resolution, but they won't put any deadlines on the process. The Giants have only added one defensive tackle in free agency, so Lawrence's status could impact their draft plans as they look to bolster the defensive line.

  • Last week, Lawrence publicly requested a trade from the Giants.
  • This week, Giants GM Joe Schoen spoke to reporters about the situation for the first time.

The players

Joe Schoen

The general manager of the New York Giants who has been in communication with Dexter Lawrence's representatives about his trade request.

Dexter Lawrence

An All-Pro defensive tackle for the New York Giants who signed a four-year, $90-million extension in 2023 but is now the 12th-highest paid player at his position, leading him to request a trade.

John Harbaugh

The head coach of the New York Giants who said last week that the team wants Lawrence to remain with the team and believes Lawrence wants to be there as well.

Dawn Aponte

The senior vice president of football operations and strategy for the New York Giants, who has also been in communication with Lawrence's representatives.

Sam Roberts

A defensive tackle signed by the Giants in free agency this offseason to help bolster their defensive line depth.

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What they’re saying

“I'll echo what Coach (John Harbaugh) said last week: We'd like for Dexter to be here, and at some point we'll come to a resolution here, whatever that may be.”

— Joe Schoen, Giants General Manager

“Speaking for the Giants, we want Dexter here. And I believe Dexter wants to be here. That's a good formula, but there's business involved.”

— John Harbaugh, Giants Head Coach

What’s next

The Giants and Lawrence's representatives will continue to have discussions in an effort to find a resolution to the player's trade request, with no set deadlines for a decision.

The takeaway

The Giants face a challenging situation in trying to keep a talented defensive tackle happy while also managing their salary cap and roster needs. How they navigate Lawrence's trade request could have significant implications for the team's defensive line and overall competitiveness in the upcoming season.