Browns Declined to Trade Top Pick for Giants' Dexter Lawrence II

Cleveland focused on long-term QB solution instead of short-term defensive help

Apr. 20, 2026 at 2:55pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting fragmented and overlapping football players and field elements, conveying the complex strategic decisions facing the Browns this offseason.The Browns' decision to forgo trading for Dexter Lawrence II reflects their long-term vision, even as they consider shaking up their roster with a Myles Garrett trade.NYC Today

The Cleveland Browns reportedly expressed interest in trading for former New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II, but were unwilling to part with a top-10 pick like the Cincinnati Bengals did to acquire him. The Browns are instead focused on finding a long-term solution at quarterback in the upcoming NFL Draft, rather than making a short-term move for defensive help.

Why it matters

The Browns have struggled in recent years, going 4-12 last season, and have no proven long-term answer at quarterback on their roster. Meanwhile, the Bengals - who just traded for Lawrence - are expected to have a healthy Joe Burrow leading their offense next season as they look to build on their recent playoff success.

The details

According to reports, the Browns were interested in trading for Lawrence but weren't willing to give up the 10th overall pick, which is what the Bengals sent to the Giants to acquire the three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle. Lawrence seemingly wanted to join a playoff contender after participating in just two playoff games and one postseason win over his first seven NFL seasons with the Giants.

  • On Monday, Browns insider Mary Kay Cabot reported the team's interest in Lawrence.
  • On Sunday, ESPN's Jordan Raanan, Jeremy Fowler and Ben Baby shared that no other team 'was going to beat the 10th pick' in a trade for Lawrence.

The players

Dexter Lawrence II

A three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle who was traded from the New York Giants to the Cincinnati Bengals for the 10th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Myles Garrett

The Cleveland Browns' star pass-rusher, who some reports suggest could be traded this offseason as the team looks to acquire a long-term quarterback solution.

Joe Burrow

The Cincinnati Bengals' quarterback, who is expected to be healthy and leading his team's offense next season as they look to build on their recent playoff success.

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What they’re saying

“The Browns expressed interest in trading for former Giants three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence, but weren't prepared to give up a top 10 pick like the Bengals were.”

— Mary Kay Cabot, Browns insider

“No other team 'was going to beat the 10th pick' regarding a Lawrence trade.”

— Jordan Raanan, Jeremy Fowler and Ben Baby, ESPN reporters

What’s next

The Browns will continue to explore options to improve their roster, including potentially trading star pass-rusher Myles Garrett, as they look to find a long-term solution at quarterback in the upcoming draft.

The takeaway

The Browns' decision not to trade a top-10 pick for Dexter Lawrence II highlights their focus on building a long-term contender, rather than making short-term moves for defensive help. This approach could pay dividends down the road if they are able to land a franchise quarterback in the draft.