The move came as Cincinnati contended that the draft’s top defensive players might not last until the 10th pick, making a proven impact player more valuable than a speculative rookie. Head coach Zac Taylor called Lawrence a “known commodity” and said there’s value in integrating a veteran into the lineup.
At No. 10, the Giants selected Francis Mauigoa, an offensive tackle from Miami, after hearing that Caleb Downs and Rueben Bain Jr.—two players widely expected to go in the top nine—were still on the board. New York had previously used that pick to take Mauigoa and also drafted Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese at No. 5.
Cincinnati subsequently secured Lawrence with a three-year extension worth $28 million, ensuring the three-time Pro Bowler remains under contract for the foreseeable future as he eyes an immediate impact on defense.
Lawrence was originally selected 17th overall by the Giants in 2019 and has earned second-team All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors after the 2022 and 2023 seasons, adding a third Pro Bowl nod in 2024. He signed the extension after the move to the Bengals was finalized.
In 2025, Lawrence started 17 games and posted career lows in tackles (31) and sacks (0.5), with four tackles for loss—the second-fewest of his career. Cincinnati is hopeful the veteran presence can lift a unit that ranked 31st in total yards allowed and 30th in points allowed last season.
