Grade the Dexter Lawrence trade to the Cincinnati Bengals

Oct 26, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence (97) against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images | Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

The Cincinnati Bengals officially shocked the world with a blockbuster trade as the 2026 NFL Draft quickly approaches.

The Bengals have sent the 10th overall pick to the New York Giants for superstar defensive tackle Dexter Sexy Dexy' Lawrence.

The front office pulled off the historical franchise trade to help go all in' with Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins.

It is no secret that the Bengals' defense has been horrid the past few seasons, and it is clear the front office had full intentions to improve the unit this offseason with Boye Mafe, Bryan Cook, Jonathan Allen, and now Dexter Lawrence.

Some may feel the 10th overall pick is a bit rich for Lawrence, but you won't find an instant-impact, proven All-Pro talent like Sexy Dexy at that point in this year's draft class.

I could sit here and explain how massive this trade is for the Bengals defense, but Warren Sharp summed it up perfectly in one post; it is worth the read:

some thoughts on Lawrence to Cincy...

<buckle up>

Dexter Lawrence is a 28-year old stud

he spent most of his career playing vs elite interior OLs of the Eagles & Cowboys

he's been double-teamed at the highest rate in the NFL

he's now playing in the AFC North

Ravens lost...

- Warren Sharp (@SharpFootball) April 19, 2026

Lawrence is an incredibly versatile talent at the defensive tackle position and will now be reunited with his former teammate, B.J. Hill, to help boost the trenches in Cincinnati.

Tell us your thoughts on the blockbuster trade and let us know your grade for the pick. Drop it in the comments!