In his first public comments since being traded from the New York Giants to the Cincinnati Bengals, nose tackle Dexter Lawrence expressed renewed motivation and excitement about his fresh start.
The blockbuster deal, completed on Saturday, sent the three-time Pro Bowl nose tackle to Cincinnati in exchange for the Bengals’ No. 10 overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft. The Giants, now armed with the fifth and 10th selections in the first round, continue their roster rebuild.
Lawrence, who had requested a trade after contract negotiations stalled with New York, quickly agreed to a one-year, $28 million extension with the Bengals that keeps him under contract through the 2028 season.
In an interview with Bengals radio voice Dan Hoard, Lawrence reflected on the move that ended a lengthy offseason process.
“They wanted me here and they appreciated the work that I’ve put in over the last seven seasons,” Lawrence said. “I appreciate that and I’m going to do everything I can to show them that they didn’t waste [a top 10 pick]. I’m excited. I’ve got a fire in me that I’ve never had before, so I’m excited. I’m excited to be a Bengal.”
He described the lead-up to the trade as a “long process” but noted immediate excitement upon learning the Bengals were a potential destination. Lawrence credited his faith for helping him through the uncertainty.
“God got me through it, and right now, I’m ready to let my light shine and go win some games,” he said.
Acknowledging the high expectations that come with being acquired for a premium draft asset, Lawrence embraced the challenge rather than feeling burdened by it.
“I know people are going to say [there’s] pressure, but I embrace it,” he said. “I bring it in. It doesn’t affect me, the pressure. I just know who I am and I’m going to stay true to that. I’m going to be the guy to help this defense go to the next level.”
The 2024 Pro Bowler delivered a career-high 9.0 sacks in 12 games that season but saw limited production in 2025.
This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: Dexter Lawrence says he has new ‘fire’ following New York Giants trade
Reporting by Dan Benton, Giants Wire / Giants Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
