Grading the trade: Bengals go completely off script to make a blockbuster move for star defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence

The Cincinnati Bengals have decided to part ways with the 10th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft for star DT Dexter Lawrence. But was it the right move? We grade it.

Most of the NFL world sat on a very quiet Saturday night just days before the 2026 NFL Draft, with growing anticipation for this Thursday’s marquee event on the NFL calendar. But behind the scenes, the action that predates the draft is very busy. Teams are calling one another, aiming to move up the board.

In the case of the Cincinnati Bengals, however, they appeared to be in no-man’s land. Likely out of range from any of the blue-chippers and knowing that a team like Dallas is behind them, armed with more capital and also trying to move up, Cincinnati went for the win-now move.

Bengals trade 10th pick in 2026 NFL Draft for Giants DT Dexter Lawrence

“Draft week blockbuster: The Giants are trading three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence to the Bengals in a deal that will include the 10th overall pick going to New York, per ESPN sources. The Giants now head into Thursday night with the 5th and 10th overall picks.” – Adam Schefter, ESPN

It has been reported that the move for Lawrence is a direct swap. Cincy receives Lawrence, the Giants get the 10th pick. If you are unfamiliar with the situation in New York, it’s pretty straightforward.

Lawrence wants a new deal, but the Giants are starting fresh with long-time AFC North HC John Harbaugh. Harbaugh has made it very clear that if you’re not all the way in, then you can get out. Lawrence requested the trade, and while it was quiet for most of the last week, the Bengals came with premium capital, and it was an offer too good to refuse. But was it the right offer? Here’s John Sheeran of A to Z Sports Cincinnati’s take and grade.

Final trade grade: A

“This is the most shocked I've ever been about the Bengals. While Dexter Lawrence is indeed a force multiplier and absolute difference maker at defensive tackle, trading a first-round pick straight up is definitely unexpected behavior for this franchise. They protect their first-rounders like they're locked in a bank vault, never even entertaining the idea of trading up in the round for a better player. Giving up pick No. 10 for a three-time Pro Bowler and signing him to a new deal is completely uncharted territory for this club, and you can bet the fan base will be energized for the better.” – Sheeran