Browns Weigh Options on Dexter Lawrence Trade, Focus on Draft Prospects

Shedeur Sanders, Deshaun Watson, and Dillon Gabriel showcase skills at Browns minicamp

Apr. 20, 2026 at 9:08am

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The Browns explored trading for former Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence but ultimately decided against giving up a top-10 pick, as the Bengals did. Instead, the Browns are confident in their current defensive line, led by 2025 first-round pick Mason Graham, 2024 second-rounder Mike Hall Jr., and veteran Maliek Collins. The team also hosted a top-30 visit with receiver Jordyn Tyson of Arizona State and is scouting other top receiving prospects ahead of the draft.

Why it matters

The Browns' decision not to trade for Lawrence means they will have to face him twice a year as a member of the rival Bengals. However, the team believes it has the talent on the defensive line to remain competitive without Lawrence. The quarterback competition between Shedeur Sanders, Deshaun Watson, and Dillon Gabriel will also be a key storyline to watch as the Browns prepare for the upcoming season.

The details

The Browns expressed interest in trading for Lawrence but were unwilling to give up a top-10 pick like the Bengals did, sending the No. 10 overall selection to the Giants. Instead, the Browns will rely on their current defensive line, which includes 2025 first-round pick Mason Graham, 2024 second-rounder Mike Hall Jr., and veteran Maliek Collins, who is recovering from a torn quad. The team also hosted a top-30 visit with receiver Jordyn Tyson of Arizona State and is scouting other top receiving prospects like Ohio State's Carnell Tate, USC's Makai Lemon, Texas A&M's KC Concepcion, and Washington's Denzel Boston.

  • The Browns expressed interest in trading for Dexter Lawrence prior to the 2023 NFL Draft.
  • The Bengals traded the No. 10 overall pick to the Giants to acquire Lawrence on draft day.
  • Maliek Collins is recovering from a torn quad suffered in a loss to the 49ers on November 30, 2025.

The players

Dexter Lawrence

A three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle who was traded from the Giants to the Bengals in exchange for the No. 10 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.

Mason Graham

The Browns' 2025 first-round pick, who is expected to be a key part of the team's defensive line rotation.

Maliek Collins

A veteran defensive tackle for the Browns who is recovering from a torn quad injury suffered in 2025.

Jordyn Tyson

A wide receiver prospect from Arizona State who the Browns hosted for a top-30 visit, along with his brother Jaylen Tyson of the Cavaliers.

Shedeur Sanders

One of the Browns' quarterbacks competing for the starting job, along with Deshaun Watson and Dillon Gabriel.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

The takeaway

The Browns' decision not to trade for Dexter Lawrence highlights their confidence in their current defensive line, led by young talents like Mason Graham and Mike Hall Jr. However, they will now have to face Lawrence twice a year as a member of the rival Bengals. The quarterback competition between Shedeur Sanders, Deshaun Watson, and Dillon Gabriel will be a key storyline to watch as the Browns prepare for the upcoming season.