Bengals trade proposal lands 340-pound Giants defensive tackle for multiple draft picks

The Cincinnati Bengals are coming off a disappointing 2025 season with some major needs on the defensive side of the ball.

Nearly every position could use help. But the defensive line might be the most important need. While edge rushers might draw a lot of attention, the interior of the defensive line needs to be a whole lot better as well.

That's why Bleacher Report's Alex Ballentine proposed a trade that would have the Bengals land a 340-pound defensive tackle from the New York Giants in veteran Dexter Lawrence. 

Bengals trade proposal lands Giants' 340-pound DT

"Bengals Receive: DT Dexter Lawrence, 2026 sixth-round pick (No. 192). Giants Receive: 2026 second-round pick (No. 41), 2027 fifth-round pick," Ballentine proposed.

The Bengals defense needs help at every level, and Lawrence would be a huge presence in the interior of the defensive line.

The 28-year-old three-time Pro Bowler is a great defensive lineman. While interior linemen don't typically generate sacks, he recorded 30 in the six seasons before 2025.

But this past season, Lawrence struggled a bit, getting just 0.5 sacks and 31 tackles to pair with eight quarterback hits, the fewest he's had in a season. He did record his first interception, which featured a 37-yard return.

More: Bengals are best fit for Chiefs' free agent 250-pound, 218-tackle linebacker

Lawrence, in this trade idea, would cost the Bengals a second-round pick and a future fifth. That's not cheap, but considering that Lawrence is under contract for the next two seasons with cap hits of $26.9 million and $28.9 million in 2026 and 2027, respectively.

The Bengals need a veteran presence along the defensive line who can wreak havoc against the pass. Lawrence can be just that and more for the Bengals.

It's not a cheap trade, but Ballentine's proposal would be one that could immediately improve the Bengals' defense that needs major improvement this offseason.

More Bengals news:

• Bengals announce re-signing of CB, RB to one-year deals before free agency
• Bengals linked to free agent All-Pro Bears safety who led NFL in interceptions in 2025
• Bengals are best landing spot for Jaguars LB who had 99-yard pick-six off Patrick Mahomes
• Bengals expected to make interesting Trey Hendrickson trade decision
• Bengals could upgrade safety room amid strong fit with Chiefs' Super Bowl champion
• Bengals trade idea lands Cowboys DT recently acquired in blockbuster trade for cheap
• Why Bengals should prioritize Joe Flacco over Trey Hendrickson in free agency