Bengals draft picks, mock draft after Dexter Lawrence trade

The Cincinnati Bengals did something Saturday that is typically uncharacteristic of them. They were aggressive and made a blockbuster trade.

Per multiple reports, the Bengals agreed to a deal, pending a physical, for defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence from the New York Giants. The deal includes the Giants acquiring the No. 10 overall pick in Thursday's first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. As a result, the Bengals no longer have a first-round pick and no pick in the top 40.

The Bengals still have seven picks heading into the draft next week, but now are not scheduled to make their first pick until No. 41 overall in Friday's second round. Here's their remaining picks for next week.

Bengals draft picks list after Dexter Lawrence trade

• No. 41 (Round 2)
• No. 72 (Round 3)
• No. 110 (Round 4)
• No. 189 (Round 6)
• No. 199 (Round 6, via Detroit)
• No. 221 (Round 7, via New York Giants)
• No. 226 (Round 7)

One can look at the trade from this perspective for the Bengals: the team was hoping to find an impact player with the 10th overall pick. They did just that, beefing up their defensive line in a major way.

Of course, the Bengals have to build a new contract for Lawrence, who is turning 29 years old in November and coming off a disappointing 2025 season in which he recorded just a half-sack. Still, Lawrence brings a major boost to a defensive line that badly needed one, even if the price is seen as a major overpay by those across the media.

As far as draft strategy now goes, the Bengals can still find more help on the defensive side of the football. Linebackers Jacob Rodriguez, Anthony Hill Jr., and Jake Golday should all be in play in the second round at that position. Edge help should also be in the mix, with players such as Zion Young, Malachi Lawrence and among some of the names to keep an eye on.