The New York Giants have traded star defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence to the Cincinnati Bengals in a major pre-draft blockbuster move.

In exchange for the three-time Pro Bowler, the Giants received the No. 10 overall selection in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft.

Lawrence, 28, has been the cornerstone of the Giants’ defense since being drafted in 2019, consistently ranking as one of the league’s premier interior defenders.

The defensive tackle has been a powerhouse since being drafted 17th overall in 2019, recording 341 total tackles and 30.5 sacks over seven seasons in New York. 

His 2024 campaign was a career-high for efficiency, as he racked up 9.0 sacks in just 12 games before a season-ending injury.

Affectionately known as ‘Sexy Dexy,’ his departure marks the end of an era in New York, where he earned three Pro Bowl selections and two Second-team All-Pro honors.

The New York Giants have finalized a blockbuster trade that will send star defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence to the Cincinnati Bengals

Lawrence, 28, has been the cornerstone of the Giants’ defense since being drafted in 2019

For the Bengals, the acquisition addresses a need for a dominant presence in the trenches to support an offense led by Joe Burrow.

The trade was met with immediate shock across social media, with Giants fans expressing frustration over the loss of their most impactful defensive player.

However, some analysts suggested the Giants won the trade by a ‘landslide’ given the high value of the No. 10 pick in a deep talent pool.

The Giants now hold the No. 5 and No. 10 picks, providing the front office with significant leverage as they head into Draft night next week.

The trade is expected to be finalized pending a physical, clearing the way for Lawrence to join his new teammates for voluntary workouts.

As the draft approaches, the focus in New York shifts entirely to how the organization will utilize their newfound draft capital to replace their defensive anchor.