How Dexter Lawrence really feels about the Bengals trading No. 10 pick to Giants for him

The emotional weight of Dexter Lawrence’s transition to Cincinnati was captured in a video shared by the team, showing the All-Pro defensive tackle smiling as he stepped onto the turf of Paycor Stadium for the first time. Lawrence admitted to feeling chills as he took in his new surroundings, a moment that underscored his immediate commitment to the organization and contrasted sharply with the stalled negotiations that marked his final days in New York.

For a franchise typically associated with conservative draft strategies, seeing their new star embrace the city has generated significant excitement for the upcoming 2026 season.

The Bengals made this move by taking a significant risk, sending the No. 10 overall pick to the New York Giants.

To solidify their partnership, the team quickly signed Lawrence to a one-year, $28 million contract extension, which keeps him under contract through the 2028 season. This bold move addresses longstanding defensive issues, particularly in run defense and interior pass pressure.

Beyond the logistics of the deal, the manner in which the Bengals executed the trade resonated deeply with Lawrence.

According to Ari Meirov on X, the defensive tackle highlighted the team’s willingness to trade a top-10 pick and grant him an immediate extension as evidence of their belief in him.

Dexter Lawrence on the #Bengals trading a top-10 pick for him and extending him right away:

“They wanted me here and they appreciated the work that I’ve put in over the last seven seasons. … I’ve got a fire in me that I’ve never had before.”

( @Bengals) https://t.co/JJ8PKnVQ3h pic.twitter.com/DC9b4kLwCf

— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) April 19, 2026

Lawrence commented that the organization clearly valued the effort he had put in over the last seven seasons and wanted him in their ranks, and this display of confidence has greatly boosted his motivation, as he noted that he now feels a fire within him that he has never experienced before.

With their investment in his veteran experience, the Bengals have not only secured a defensive cornerstone but also gained a highly motivated leader who is eager to demonstrate that this historic investment was entirely justified.

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