The Cincinnati Bengals made a massive splash when they acquired Dexter Lawrence in a trade with the New York Giants. It remained consistent with the team’s win-now philosophy, as they gave away their No. 10 overall pick.
Lawrence will now try and help lead the Bengals out of the defensive cellar. If it goes anything like how he plays NBA2K, Cincinnati will be even more excited with their new addition, via Caleb Noe of WCPO 9.
“I play with probably the worst team, I like to challenge myself,” Lawrence said.
Dexter Lawrence was playing @NBA2K when he found out he got traded to Cincinnati.
I asked what team he plays with on the game:
“I play with, probably the worst team. I like to challenge myself.”
The comment wasn’t meant this way, but… Feels metaphorical, as he joins defense… pic.twitter.com/60nU3lOwHT
— Caleb Noe (@CalebNoeTV) April 20, 2026
The Bengals finished their 2025 season ranked 31st in total defense, allowing 380.9 yards per game. They struggled mightily against the run, ranking dead last by allowing 147.1 YPG. Lawrence won’t be able to do everything on his own, but it’s now up to him to help lead Cincinnati’s defense to glory. Much like he does when he plays with bad 2K teams.
Over his seven years with the Giants, Lawrence put up 341 tackles, 103 quarterback hits and 30.5 sacks. The 2025 season was a down year for the defensive tackle. But from 2022-2024, Lawrence made the Pro Bowl every season. He put up 20.5 sacks in those three years alone. The Bengals were willing to pay so much because they’re expecting Lawrence to offer that kind of value.
Cincinnati has gone all-in on offense in search of a Super Bowl title. Quarterback Joe Burrow is throwing to an expensive, and explosive, wide receiver duo of Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. That’s a difficult trio to beat.
However, the team’s defense has taken a hit because of it. Now, the Bengals are trying to add an extra spark to that side of the ball. Cincinnati needs more than Lawrence to be true contenders. But the defensive tackle gives the Bengals a new face on D and certainly much more bite.
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