The Cleveland Browns are reportedly in trade talks to acquire defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence from the New York Giants, potentially offering a second-round pick. The Giants prefer a first-round pick and are hesitant to part with Lawrence, who is seeking a new contract.
Key points
Browns in trade talks for Dexter Lawrence
Giants prefer a first-round pick for Lawrence
Lawrence seeking a new contract
Potential impact on Browns' defensive line
Lawrence's performance includes three Pro Bowl selections
Cleveland BrownsNew York GiantsDexter Lawrence
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - FEBRUARY 04: NFC defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence #97 of the New York Giants, NFC defensive tackle Daron Payne #94 of the Washington Commanders, NFC defensive tackle Jonathan Allen #93 of the Washington Commanders, NFC defensive end Cam Jordan #94 of the New Orleans Saints and NFC offensive guard Zack Martin #70 of the Dallas Cowboys pose for a photo during a practice session prior to an NFL Pro Bowl football game at Allegiant Stadium on February 04, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images) | Getty Images
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - FEBRUARY 04: NFC defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence #97 of the New York Giants, NFC defensive tackle Daron Payne #94 of the Washington Commanders, NFC defensive tackle Jonathan Allen #93 of the Washington Commanders, NFC defensive end Cam Jordan #94 of the New Orleans Saints and NFC offensive guard Zack Martin #70 of the Dallas Cowboys pose for a photo during a practice session prior to an NFL Pro Bowl football game at Allegiant Stadium on February 04, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images) | Getty Images
There are a few times a year in the NFL when big moves might get made. without the kind of earth-shattering moves many were hoping for. The NFL trade deadline has become far more active than it has ever been, with younger GMs and more aggressive ownership groups.
The next stop is the NFL draft. Just before, during, and just after , a few big moves heat back up. with , including with the selections.
Saturday morning, I received a message about the Browns potentially trading for New York Giants DT **Dexter Lawrence**. Shortly after that, this was posted on social media:
Following up with a number of folks around the league, there has been talk that Cleveland’s offer of a second-round pick has been the best offer that the Giants have received, but that they are holding out for a first-round pick, and would prefer to hold on to Lawrence. On the Browns side, there are a number of other trades, including , that could impact which pick or picks they are willing to deal for the veteran defender.
and is looking for a new contract. The 28-year-old veteran has been an elite interior defender for years, including Pro Bowl nods in three of the last four seasons. Last year was a bit of a down year with his sacks (9 to 0.5), tackles for loss (8 to 4), and QB hits (16 to 8) dropping significantly from the previous season.
Lawrence’s current deal is outside of the Top 10 in annual value at his position and runs two more seasons with cap hits over $25 million. Before last year started, .
For Cleveland, adding Lawrence could bolster an already very good defensive line with DE **** or help keep the talent level high if Garrett were to be traded after June 1st, when it would be financially possible.
For now, we will continue to seek more information on this Lawrence rumor and treat it like all the other ones floating around.
***How would you feel about the Browns trading for Lawrence and giving him a new contract extension to move him up near the top DTs in the league?***
Q&A
What are the details of the Browns' trade talks for Dexter Lawrence?
The Browns are discussing a trade for Dexter Lawrence, reportedly offering a second-round pick, while the Giants are holding out for a first-round pick.
Why does Dexter Lawrence want to leave the New York Giants?
Dexter Lawrence is reportedly looking for a new contract and wants out of New York, as his current deal is not among the top in annual value for his position.
How could Dexter Lawrence's addition impact the Browns' defense?
Adding Dexter Lawrence could enhance the Browns' already strong defensive line, especially if they trade Myles Garrett after June 1st.
What is Dexter Lawrence's performance history in the NFL?
Dexter Lawrence has been an elite interior defender with three Pro Bowl selections in the last four seasons, although he had a down year last season.
