In free agency, Cincinnati signed former Kansas City Chiefs safety Bryan Cook to a three-year, $40.2 million contract, added Super Bowl–champion edge defender Boye Mafe on a $60 million deal, and brought in veteran defensive lineman Jonathan Allen to bolster the middle of the line.
However, the team did lose All-Pro pass rusher Trey Hendrickson in free agency, with the edge move to the division rival Baltimore Ravens creating a noticeable void on the front.
Dexter Lawrence’s situation with the New York Giants has intensified trade rumors, as reports indicate he wants out amid stalled contract talks. With two years remaining on his current deal, Lawrence would arrive as a premium upgrade at defensive tackle if a trade could be completed.
A Lawrence addition would address Cincinnati’s interior run defense and pair with Allen to form a more menacing front, aligning with the Bengals’ long-term contention goals and their Super Bowl window.
Analysts have noted the Bengals’ ongoing interest in interior defensive help and have highlighted potential draft targets at defensive tackle—planning around adding a high-impact presence to complement a possible Lawrence move.
In short, a Dexter Lawrence trade could significantly alter Cincinnati’s defensive trajectory, offering a path to a stronger run defense and interior disruption as the team continues to navigate free agency and the draft.
