ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports Lions Get Positive Update in Potential Pursuit of $87 Million New York Giants Star
It’s still unclear whether the Detroit Lions are seriously pursuing Dexter Lawrence, but a major development this week could open the door.
According to Ian Rapoport, the New York Giants have “reached an impasse” in contract negotiations with Lawrence. The report suggests a trade could materialize soon, possibly before the NFL Draft.
Rapoport added that the Giants have already engaged multiple teams in trade discussions, signaling that a deal could be imminent.
Meanwhile, Adam Schefter previously reported that Lawrence requested a trade earlier this month. The two-time second-team All-Pro is currently in the middle of a four-year, $87.5 million contract but has yet to secure a new extension after multiple offseason negotiations.
Will the Giants Trade Dexter Lawrence?
With contract talks stalled, a trade involving Lawrence is becoming increasingly likely.
At 29 years old in November, Lawrence remains one of the NFL’s top interior defensive linemen at his peak. He earned second-team All-Pro honors in 2022 and 2023 and made the Pro Bowl in 2024.
However, his 2025 season raised concerns. Despite playing all 17 games, Lawrence recorded just 0.5 sacks, four tackles for loss, and eight quarterback hits—career lows in key pass-rushing categories.
Still, his 2024 campaign proves his upside. That season, Lawrence posted nine sacks, eight tackles for loss, and 16 quarterback hits, showcasing elite interior disruption.
Any team trading for him must also be prepared to offer a significant new contract, which could complicate negotiations.
Why the Detroit Lions Could Target Dexter Lawrence
The Lions are expected to prioritize pass-rush help opposite Aidan Hutchinson this offseason. But upgrading the interior defensive line remains a real need.
Detroit did not re-sign veteran defensive tackle D. J. Reader, who logged 583 defensive snaps in 2025—second-most on the team behind Hutchinson.
While Alim McNeill and Tyleik Williams are expected to step up, replacing Reader’s production won’t be easy.
Lawrence could slot in immediately as a high-impact replacement and potentially provide an upgrade alongside McNeill on the interior.
Top Trade Destinations for Dexter Lawrence
Despite the fit, the Lions may not be the frontrunner.
According to NFL.com, several teams are expected to pursue Lawrence aggressively, including the Cincinnati Bengals, Chicago Bears, and Jacksonville Jaguars.
With the NFL Draft approaching, the situation is expected to reach a resolution soon.
Bottom Line
While a move to Detroit isn’t off the table, it currently feels unlikely. Still, if the Lions want to make a major defensive upgrade, Dexter Lawrence could be a game-changing addition—if they’re willing to pay the price.
