Bengals Still Have Work to Do After Dexter Lawrence Blockbuster Trade

Cincinnati added a star defensive tackle, but needs to address other key positions.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 8:21pm

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A fragmented, cubist-style painting depicting a Cincinnati Bengals defensive player making a tackle, with the figure broken down into sharp, geometric shapes and planes of color.The Bengals' blockbuster trade for Dexter Lawrence is a major step, but the team still has more work to do to build a championship-caliber defense.Cincinnati Today

The Cincinnati Bengals made a blockbuster trade to acquire star defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence from the New York Giants. This move significantly bolsters their defense, but the team still has work to do to round out their roster and make a serious Super Bowl push.

Why it matters

The Bengals are looking to build on their recent success and make another deep playoff run. Acquiring Lawrence is a major upgrade, but they still need to address other key needs like linebacker, edge rusher, and wide receiver depth to truly contend.

The details

The Bengals sent the 10th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft to the Giants in exchange for Lawrence, a dominant interior defensive lineman. This move comes after Cincinnati already added several other talented players in free agency, including Boye Mafe, Bryan Cook, and Jonathan Allen. With Lawrence in the fold, the Bengals' defense looks significantly improved, but they still have holes to fill at other positions.

  • The Bengals made the trade for Lawrence on Saturday, April 19, 2026.

The players

Dexter Lawrence

A superstar defensive tackle who the Bengals acquired from the New York Giants in a blockbuster trade.

Boye Mafe

A free agent defensive player signed by the Bengals this offseason.

Bryan Cook

A free agent defensive player signed by the Bengals this offseason.

Jonathan Allen

A free agent defensive player signed by the Bengals this offseason.

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What they’re saying

“This move could be the final blockbuster move for the Bengals this offseason. They don't need to make any huge additions at this point. But they could.”

— Zach Pressnell, Author

What’s next

The Bengals should focus on addressing their linebacker corps, adding an edge rusher, and finding a third wide receiver and nickel cornerback, either through the draft or free agency.

The takeaway

The Bengals have made a major splash by trading for Dexter Lawrence, but they still have work to do to build a complete roster capable of making a Super Bowl run. Shoring up the linebacker position, pass rush, and receiving depth will be key next steps for the team.