The New York Giants and star nose tackle Dexter Lawrence solved their conflict on Saturday night when the team dealt the three-time Pro Bowler to the Cincinnati Bengals for the 10th overall selection in the 2026 NFL draft.
The trade leaves a gaping hole in the middle of the Giants’ defensive front, but they gained invaluable draft capital in exchange for a player who a) doesn’t want to be here any longer and b) has seen his best days, as he is dealing with a chronic elbow injury that has rendered him a lesser version of himself.
The Giants also recoup a fortune in salary cap space ($13 million), which now raises their available space to nearly $20 million.
So, how will the Giants backfill the loss of Lawrence? It won’t be easy, but they have options. A veteran or two could be the temporary fix. They recently hosted veteran D.J. Reader, but he left without a deal. They might ring him back.
The most likely fits will come through the draft, where the Giants are suddenly rich again. With the fifth and 10th overall picks in his pocket, general manager Joe Schoen is back in the driver’s seat.
Here are some players who could fill the bill at defensive tackle.
Kayden McDonald, Ohio State
The 6-foot-2, 325-pounder is a stout run-stopper widely considered the top defensive tackle in this draft class. Is he worthy of a top 10 pick, though? Probably not. Should the Giants cash in that No. 10 pick for a package of picks, including a mid-to-late first-rounder, McDonald might still be around.
Caleb Banks, Florida
Another mid-to-late first-round talent who, at nearly 6-foot-7 and 330 pounds, will be a space eater in the NFL. His dimensions will get him some attention; again, the Giants would have to be patient here.
Peter Woods, Clemson
A little lighter than the previous two at 298 pounds, but has polish and quickness. Will be a solid addition to an NFL D-line rotation. A Day 2 pick at best.
Christen Miller, Georgia
The Giants have their eye on Miller and had him in for a top 30 visit. He’s going to be a quality NFL player who’s already got size (6-foot-4, 321 pounds) and big-game experience. Again, where to take him is the question.
Lee Hunter, Texas Tech
Another massive (6-foot-4, 330 pounds) run stopper that the Giants would be fortunate to reel in. He’s likely a Day 2 pick.
Others
The Giants checked out Oklahoma’s Gracen Halton at his pro day, and Chris McClellan of Missouri came in on a top 30 visit. Neither player is first-round material and could fall to Day 3. The Giants currently hold the 105th pick in Round 4, but they will likely have their man well before that.
This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: 2026 NFL draft: Potential Dexter Lawrence replacements for Giants
Reporting by John Fennelly, Giants Wire / Giants Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
