The Bengals have officially abandoned their conservative reputation, trading a top-10 pick for a defensive superstar. Full details on the contract extension and the massive fallout in New York on Yankee Scores.

Defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II passed his physical with the Cincinnati Bengals and inked a one-year, $28 million extension.

A New Era in Cincinnati

Bengals acquired Lawrence from the New York Giants. This was in exchange for the 10th overall selection in this week’s NFL Draft.

“I know they gave up a lot for me, and I appreciate that,” Lawrence told Cincinnati Bengals. “I don’t take that for granted. I have a fire in me.”

Bengals announced the extension and did not disclose the salary details.

Bengals’ Expectations

“Dexter fits the vision we have on our defense and will also elevate others around him,” Bengals director of player personnel Duke Tobin said in a statement. “We are confident in Dexter and can’t wait to see the positive effects he and the other players we have acquired this offseason have on our football team. We are excited to turn to the draft and our remaining picks to further enhance our team.”

The New York Giants opted to trade Lawrence because they failed to come to terms on a new deal. Lawrence insisted that he be traded, following his seven-year stay with the Giants organization.

Lawrence’s Pedigree

The 28-year-old was named Pro Bowl honoree during his stint from 2022 to 2024 and made the second-team All-Pro team in both 2022 and 2023. Lawrence tallied 30.5 sacks and 40 tackles for loss over his 109 games played in the NFL. In his last season, however, Lawrence recorded his lowest career stats in the number of sacks (0.5) and tackles (33).

It is a rare occurrence for Cincinnati to pull this off.