Giants trade star DT Dexter Lawrence to Bengals

Defensive tackle sought a fresh start, leading to the blockbuster deal

Apr. 20, 2026 at 1:49am

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A cubist-style painting depicting a football player in motion, with their body and jersey fragmented into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes, conveying the conceptual idea of a major trade between two NFL teams.The Giants' trade of star defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence to the Bengals represents a major shift in the team's defensive plans.Cincinnati Today

The New York Giants have traded star defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence to the Cincinnati Bengals. Lawrence, a former first-round pick, made it clear he wanted a change of scenery, and the Bengals ultimately offered the best package to acquire him.

Why it matters

This trade represents a significant shift in the Giants' defensive core, as Lawrence was a key part of their front seven. For the Bengals, it's a major addition that could bolster their defense and help them make another deep playoff run.

The details

According to reports, the Giants received the Bengals' 10th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, as well as a 2027 third-round selection, in exchange for Lawrence. The 24-year-old defensive tackle had made it known he was seeking a fresh start, despite the Giants' efforts to keep him.

  • The trade was completed on April 20, 2026.

The players

Dexter Lawrence

A 24-year-old defensive tackle who was a first-round pick of the New York Giants in 2019.

New York Giants

The NFL franchise that traded away Dexter Lawrence to the Cincinnati Bengals.

Cincinnati Bengals

The NFL team that acquired Dexter Lawrence from the New York Giants in a trade.

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What’s next

The Bengals will look to integrate Lawrence into their defensive scheme as they prepare for the upcoming NFL season.

The takeaway

This trade represents a significant shakeup in the Giants' roster as they look to rebuild, while the Bengals have added a talented young defensive tackle to bolster their defense and make another push for the playoffs.