The Cincinnati Bengals have made a major move just ahead of the draft. In a major trade, the Bengals acquired three-time Pro Bowler Dexter Lawrence II on Sunday.

According to reports, they traded their overall No.10 pick in exchange for the defensive tackle. In a Sunday X post, NFL insider Ari Meriov reported the nitty-gritty of his contract.

“The #Bengals are signing DT Dexter Lawrence a 1-year, $28M deal as part of the trade. When you add the 2 years and $42M he had left, he’s now under contract for 3 years and $70M.”

Lawrence’s arrival in the Bengals is a pivotal move for him and the franchise. Firstly, because the Bengals needed someone like him. In the 2025 season, the team struggled significantly with defence. They managed only 407.9 yards per game, ranking 32nd overall across the league. The Bengals allowed the highest rate of missed tackles at 81. 

Meanwhile, Lawrence’s career record so far stands at 30.5 sacks and 341 tackles, of which 185 are solo. Last season, the DT recorded 31 tackles and 4 tackles for loss. He made half a sack. 

Secondly, Lawrence left the New York Giants over his contract. As per NFL insider Adam Schefter, they were negotiating a contract “reflecting his value to the team over the past three years.” 

When that did not work out, he reportedly requested a trade early in April. He even refused to join team practice.

In the same post, Meriov also hinted at the drama that happened before Lawrence left and at the one that could follow up soon.

"Two things:

• This confirms he was done with the Giants and just wanted to get out.

• It's probably not far-fetched to say the contract dilemma could come up again a year from now."

But this trade has split the Who Dey nation. Some are elated to see him in the orange-and-black stripes, but others are not. 

How Are The Bengals Fans Reacting To This Trade?

The Bengals ended with a 6-11 record last season. While both the offense and the defense were some of the worst, fans are happy over the trade strengthening the defence.

“Big move, Cincy just bolstered their interior D in a serious way,” one wrote.

Another expressed their joy over a fresh start for Lawrence. 

“He has dealt with so much dysfunction throughout his time with the Giants. He probably wanted a fresh start even if that meant making similar money with another team.”

Since his draft in 2019, the Giants went 36-80-1. And the Bengals have made a 52-63-1 record. Lawrence's move between these teams has not sat well with his critics. 

One commented, “Have fun with another dysfunctional franchise.”

Another fan wished him well, but not without issuing a caution. 

“As long as he has a half way decent year he is absolutely looking for more money after the year.  Good luck with Cincinnati.  Ask Hendrickson how that worked out,” they replied.

One comment called this deal an embarrassment.  

“Bengals got absolutely worked in this trade. Embarrassing.”

Lawrence has a long way ahead and will have to win over some stubborn fans. What are your thoughts on this deal?

Follow Cleveland Browns Community for more.

Written by

Akanksha Biradar

Edited by

Zaid Quraishi