Ted Karras says Dexter Lawrence is “probably the best nose tackle in the last 30 years”

TL;DR

Ted Karras praised Dexter Lawrence as 'probably the best nose tackle in the last 30 years' after joining the Cincinnati Bengals. Karras expressed relief that Lawrence was not traded to a rival team.

Key points

Ted Karras praised Dexter Lawrence's skills.
Lawrence is considered a top nose tackle in recent history.
Karras is excited about the revamped Bengals defensive line.

Cincinnati BengalsNew York GiantsCleveland Browns

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - OCTOBER 13: Dexter Lawrence II #97 of the New York Giants and the defensive line lines up against Ted Karras #64 of the Cincinnati Bengals and the offensive line during an NFL game at MetLife Stadium on October 13, 2024 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images) | Getty Images A lot of fans of the Cincinnati Bengals might not quite know the value of adding Dexter Lawrence. He is, after all, technically a nose tackle, and not an edge rusher who gets double digit sacks every year. But guys who’ve played against him completely understand his value. One of those guys is new teammate Ted Karras, who said Lawrence is “probably the best nose tackle in the last 30 years”. He also made it very clear that he was relieved Lawrence didn’t end up being traded to a division rival like the Cleveland Browns. The Bengals’ center then compared Lawrence to William “Refrigerator” Perry and joked that the Bengals “should give [Lawrence] the ball a little too,” as Perry famously got goal line carries. Karras gave reporters an idea of what it’s like to face Lawrence. “He’s one of those guys that’s so big and strong and fast that you can feel your arms collapse into you,” Karras said. “He’s a big scary player.” The veteran center is high on his team’s defensive line after the addition of Lawrence. “We’ve revamped our defensive line,” Karras said. “It’s probably going to be a lot of five down fronts here. We got a big, scary d-line, and it’s really exciting.”

Q&A

Why did Ted Karras call Dexter Lawrence the best nose tackle?

Ted Karras highlighted Lawrence's exceptional size, strength, and speed, emphasizing the challenges he poses to opponents.

What impact will Dexter Lawrence have on the Bengals' defensive line?

Karras believes Lawrence's addition will significantly enhance the defensive line, potentially leading to more aggressive formations like five down fronts.

What was Karras's reaction to Lawrence not being traded to the Browns?

Karras expressed relief that Lawrence remained with the Bengals instead of being traded to a division rival, which would have increased competition.