Dexter Lawrence Sends Message About Giants' Jaxson Dart After Bengals Trade
The Cincinnati Bengals acquired Pro Bowl defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence in a massive move over the weekend, sending their No. 10 overall pick in Thursday's NFL Draft in return.
Lawrence has since arrived in Cincinnati, spoken to the media, and signed a one-year contract extension worth $28 million, which locks him in with the organization for at least the next three seasons.
He had been seeking an extension with the Giants, but the two sides struggled to reach an agreement, ultimately leading to a trade request after seven seasons in New York. During his time with the Giants, he became a two-time All-Pro and recorded 341 tackles, 103 quarterback hits, 40 tackles for loss, and 30.5 sacks.
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While speaking to the media following the completion of the trade, Dexter Lawrence made his excitement to play alongside superstar quarterback Joe Burrow clear. He also reflected on his former teammate and current Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart, whom he spent just one season with after New York selected Dart in the first round last year.
"I love Jaxson (Dart). He's gonna be special. He's a good dude," Lawrence said.
"But I'm happy to play with Joe Burrow," he added. "I'm happy to be able to share the field with him and Ja'Marr and Tee and all those guys over there."
The Bengals are entering a pivotal season with Burrow, and after missing the postseason for three consecutive years, making it clear to their franchise quarterback that they are all-in on winning was crucial this offseason.
By acquiring a player like Lawrence, that message is reinforced, along with several other free-agent additions the team has made over the past month.
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This story was originally published April 20, 2026 at 8:23 PM.