A giant with a clear mission
Dexter Lawrence comes to Cincinnati with an impressive resume: three Pro Bowls, more than 30 sacks and the title of one of the best defensive tackles in the league. But something big is missing: postseason success. His new team, the Bengals, just bet big on him, sending their No. 10 draft pick to New York.
“Honestly, it’s pressure, but I take the pressure,” Lawrence said. “I’ve had pressure my whole life… I want to continue being the guy who destroys the game.”
The deal was closed quickly. Lawrence had asked out of the Giants, initially seeking an extension. Suddenly, everything changed.
“It was an abrupt change,” he acknowledged. “I went from thinking about a long offseason to being here today. I’m blessed and ready to get going.”
His first day in Cincinnati coincided with the start of the optional preseason program. Weights, running and the first opportunity to connect with his new teammates. Among them, an old acquaintance: BJ Hill.
“When this opportunity came up, I jumped at it right away,” Lawrence said of the transfer. “I knew it was going to be uncomfortable… But that’s the process. I was excited, especially to play with my dog BJ (Hill) again.”
A luxury reinforcement for a historical need
With Lawrence, the Bengals completely turn around a position that was a weakness for years. They now have a solid group with Jonathan Allen, Hill, TJ Slaton and other young talent.
The best: Lawrence not only stops the rival race. He also knows how to get to the quarterback. Although his numbers dipped a bit last season, he remains a magnet for double blocks, a testament to the respect he commands.
Cincinnati’s front office and ownership believe he’s worth every penny…and that valuable 10th pick in the draft.
“It’s exciting,” said coach Zac Taylor. “For me, for our organization, our locker room, our fans… For a player of this caliber, we are excited to have done it.”
The pressure is on the table. Dexter Lawrence sees it, accepts it and is ready to return it from the defensive line. The Bengals hope it will be the final push.
