After several back-and-forths in recent weeks, Dexter Lawrence is finally a new player for the Cincinnati Bengals. The now former New York Giants player, team that also made a strong offer to retain him, arrives with an internal fire he has never had in his career.
“They wanted me here and they appreciated the work that I’ve put in over the last seven seasons. … I’ve got a fire in me that I’ve never had before,” the experienced nose tackle revealed via @Bengals.
Talent, experience, leadership, and now that inner fire that could elevate him to give his best. Clearly, the Bengals have acquired one of the best versions of Lawrence in his career. Can he prove it on the field?
In Cincinnati through 2028
Following the important move that sent the Pro Bowl defensive tackle to Cincinnati in exchange for the No. 10 overall pick, the team moved quickly to secure his future. Including the new one-year, $28 million extension he signed upon arrival, Dexter Lawrence will earn after NY Giants trade with Bengals a total of approximately $70 million over the next three seasons.
Dexter Lawrence at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
This lucrative deal, which keeps him under contract through 2028, includes a $10 million signing bonus and positions him as one of the highest-paid interior defenders in the league as he joins Zac Taylor’s defensive front.
What Bengals still need to become true contenders?
To become true contenders in 2026, the Cincinnati Bengals must finalize their defensive overhaul. While the blockbuster acquisition of Dexter Lawrence solves their massive hole at nose tackle, the team still lacks elite pass-rushing depth and a lockdown presence in the secondary.
To maximize Joe Burrow’s window, the Bengals need talented players who can prevent the explosive plays that plagued them last season. While Arvell Reese, David Bailey, and Rueben Bain Jr. are among the top prospects at this position, it will be difficult for them to be available at the 41st overall pick, when the Bengals will make their first selection in the upcoming NFL draft.
