Giants' Draft Plans After Dexter Lawrence Trade Good News For Jaxson Dart
All-Pro defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence had been a cornerstone of the New York Giants for much of the past decade. However, after the two sides failed to reach an agreement on a new contract, Lawrence requested a trade. Following initial resistance, New York ultimately accepted an offer from the Cincinnati Bengals that proved too strong to pass up.
A first-round pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, Lawrence recorded 341 tackles, 30.5 sacks, and 103 quarterback hits across 109 games, including 102 starts, during his time in New York. With two years remaining on his deal, he was set to earn a base salary of $18.5 million in 2026.
That figure, however, fell short of Lawrence's expectations, as he reportedly sought a deal worth over $30 million annually. For the Giants, that was too steep for a player coming off a down season. When Cincinnati offered the No. 10 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, the decision became much easier.
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the deal was finalized on Saturday, and the Giants now hold three picks inside the top 40, giving head coach John Harbaugh significant resources to accelerate a rebuild in New York. That development could also benefit quarterback Jaxson Dart, who lacks a true WR2.
Draft week blockbuster: The Giants are trading three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence to the Bengals in a deal that will include the 10th overall pick going to New York, per ESPN sources.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 19, 2026
The Giants now head into Thursday night with the 5th and 10th overall picks. pic.twitter.com/cV6Qobp6Aq
Giants' Plans With First-Round Picks Revealed
According to draft analyst Todd McShay, the Giants are targeting Sonny Styles with the fifth overall pick, viewing the Ohio State linebacker as a defensive centerpiece and versatile "chess piece." McShay also noted that safety Caleb Downs, widely regarded as one of the top overall prospects in the class, remains a strong alternative,
With the newly acquired No. 10 pick, the Giants are reportedly leaning toward selecting Jordyn Tyson to give Dart a much-needed perimeter weapon alongside Malik Nabers.
NYG now own 1/5 of the top-10 picks in Thursday's first round of the NFL draft.
— Todd McShay (@McShay13) April 19, 2026
-This gets Harbaugh his defensive captain and chess piece (LB Styles is what I'm hearing but don't rule out DS Downs)
-And it gets Dart the perimeter weapon he needs opposite Nabers. I'm hearing… https://t.co/tR3FBaPZyi
Further insight into Tyson's rising stock came from Mike Garafolo and Ian Rapoport, who reported that Giants general manager Joe Schoen traveled to Arizona to attend Tyson's workout and met with him privately the night before.
"With NYG at 10 after the Dexter Lawrence trade, Tyson's odds of being a top-10 pick have increased significantly," Garafolo noted.
However, the Giants may face competition for Tyson, as teams like the Cleveland Browns and New Orleans Saints could target a wide receiver early to support their young quarterbacks. Even so, the depth of this year's receiver class provides New York with alternatives if needed, though Tyson appears to be a top priority.
Despite a notable injury history, the 21-year-old has demonstrated resilience and high-end potential. Across his four-year collegiate career, Tyson totaled 158 receptions for 2,282 yards and 22 touchdowns, while averaging more than 14 yards per catch. With his size, athleticism, and playmaking ability, he projects as a potential long-term starter at the next level.
Related: Giants Make Quarterback Announcement Before 2026 NFL Draft
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This story was originally published April 19, 2026 at 6:18 AM.