AFC North adds another star as Bengals trade for Dexter Lawrence

TL;DR

The Bengals traded for defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence from the Giants, sending their 2026 first-round pick (No. 10 overall) in return. Lawrence, a three-time Pro Bowler, is considered one of the top defensive linemen in the NFL.

Key points

Bengals trade for Dexter Lawrence from the Giants
Bengals send 2026 first-round pick, No. 10 overall
Lawrence is a three-time Pro Bowler
Cincinnati finished 6-11 in 2025
Bengals plan to sign Lawrence to a long-term deal

Cincinnati BengalsNew York GiantsDexter Lawrence

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - DECEMBER 28: Dexter Lawrence II #97 of the New York Giants warms up before the game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium on December 28, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Candice Ward/Getty Images) | Getty Images The AFC North just added another elite defender, with the Bengals trading for New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported Saturday. The trade reportedly includes the Bengals sending their first-round pick — No. 10 overall — in the 2026 draft to New York. Now, Cincinnati’s first pick is scheduled to be No. 41 overall. Lawrence, 28, is widely regarded as one of the best — if not the best — defensive linemen in the NFL. In 2025, he recorded 31 total tackles, half a sack, and four tackles for loss. A three-time Pro Bowler, Lawrence has made a name for himself as one of the most disruptive nose tackles in football. Cincinnati has spent numerous resources retooling its defensive front in recent seasons, signing Boye Mafe and Jonathan Allen in 2026 free agency. Defensive ends Shemar Stewart and were the team’s first-round picks in 2025 and 2023, respectively. Cincinnati is expected to agree to a long-term deal with Lawrence in the near future. In 2025, the Bengals finished with a 6-11, good for third in the AFC North.

Q&A

What did the Bengals give up to acquire Dexter Lawrence?

The Bengals traded their first-round pick, No. 10 overall, in the 2026 draft to acquire Dexter Lawrence from the New York Giants.

How does Dexter Lawrence's performance impact the Bengals' defense?

Dexter Lawrence is regarded as one of the best defensive linemen in the NFL, and his addition is expected to significantly strengthen the Bengals' defensive front.

What are the Bengals' future plans for Dexter Lawrence?

The Bengals are expected to agree to a long-term deal with Dexter Lawrence in the near future.