'I Have a Fire in Me,' Dexter Lawrence Talks Giants Trade, New Bengals Contract

Dexter Lawrence knows expectations are going to be high after the Cincinnati Bengals traded the No. 10 overall pick of the 2026 NFL draft to the New York Giants to acquire him.

And he's embracing the entire situation.

"I know they gave up a lot for me, and I appreciate that. I don't take that for granted. I have a fire in me," Lawrence said, per Geoff Hobson of the Bengals' official website.

The star defensive lineman will be with Cincinnati through the 2028 season after it signed him to a contract extension following the trade. ESPN's Adam Schefter reported it was a one-year, $28 million extension.

The Bengals officially introduced him Sunday.

"I picked up a little turf on the field," Lawrence said. "I got chills when I went out there. I just see myself helping this team be where it's supposed to be … I enjoy pressure. I enjoy being under that type of light. I write down notes, and my notes are, 'Let my light shine all the time.' And keep joy. Don't let anything steal your joy."

The trade came after Schefter reported Lawrence requested a trade from the Giants and said he would not participate in the team's offseason workout program. The two sides were unable to come to terms on a new deal after two offseasons of attempting to do so.

Cincinnati was able to do so and made him the second-highest paid interior defensive linemen in average contract value behind only Kansas City Chiefs star Chris Jones.

It is a hefty price to pay, but it also makes plenty of sense for the Bengals.

After all, Lawrence is a three-time Pro Bowler who notched nine sacks as recently as the 2024 campaign. He has 30.5 sacks in his career and will provide an immediate boost to a defense that needs one along the defensive front.

Cincinnati was tied for 22nd in the league in sacks last season (35) and finished 30th in points allowed.

The only way the AFC North team is going to be able to fully capitalize on having Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins on the offense is with better defensive play, and Lawrence should help it unlock just that.