Havenstein, who recently retired and is now in media, told a Rams podcast that the Rams should call Giants general manager Joe Schoen about a trade for Lawrence if the cost isn’t prohibitive, highlighting Lawrence’s size and disruptive presence as a perfect complement to a developing defensive line.
Meanwhile, reports indicate Lawrence has requested a trade from New York, though the Giants aren’t necessarily inclined to move him and would demand a strong return, potentially including a first-round pick. The parties’ talks could stretch into Day 2 of the draft, depending on offers and contract expectations.
A primary hurdle is price. Any deal would likely involve a sizeable extension for Lawrence in the high-20 millions per year, making accumulated draft capital a central consideration for the Rams. If a potential package included a 2026 second-round pick and a 2027 first, discussions might continue, but a deal could still stall or fade after the initial draft windows.
From the Rams’ side, GM Les Snead has indicated he’s not inclined to trade the 13th overall pick for a veteran, and Los Angeles already has Poona Ford under contract through 2027, with Kobie Turner and Braden Fiske entering expiring deals. The team also must navigate life after Matthew Stafford and a possible extension for Puka Nacua, which complicates any large, immediate salary commitments.
Ultimately, while the idea of pairing Dexter Lawrence with the Rams’ budding defense is appealing in theory, the combination of price, contract implications, and roster plans makes a trade unlikely in the near term. The discussion, however, remains a talking point as the draft approaches.
