Dexter Lawrence Joins Bengals: Veteran DT Signs with Cincinnati for 2024 Season
CINCINNATI, Ohio — The Cincinnati Bengals have signed veteran defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence to a one-year contract, adding a proven pass-rusher to bolster their defensive front for the 2024 NFL season. The move, confirmed by the team on Monday afternoon, brings a three-time Pro Bowl selection and Super Bowl champion to a Bengals defense seeking to improve its pass rush after ranking 28th in sacks last season.
Lawrence, 26, spent his first five NFL seasons with the Fresh York Giants after being selected 17th overall in the 2019 NFL Draft. During his tenure in New York, he recorded 28.5 sacks, 140 tackles, and earned Pro Bowl honors in 2021, 2022, and 2023. His arrival in Cincinnati comes as the Bengals appear to address a defensive line that struggled to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks in 2023.
The Bengals’ defense allowed 4.8 yards per play and ranked 26th in total defense last season, according to NFL statistics. General Manager Duke Tobin emphasized the importance of adding experienced talent to the defensive line during the signing press conference.
“Dexter brings a rare combination of size, strength, and pass-rushing ability that we believe will elevate our entire defensive unit,” Tobin said. “His track record of production and leadership in the locker room makes him an ideal fit for our culture as we aim to compete for AFC North supremacy.”
Lawrence’s contract is reported to be worth up to $8 million in 2024, including incentives, though the Bengals have not disclosed the exact financial terms. The deal includes a $2 million signing bonus and is structured to provide flexibility for the team’s salary cap management.
On the field, Lawrence is expected to line up alongside veteran defensive tackle DJ Reader and emerging talent Zach Carter in the Bengals’ defensive rotation. His ability to collapse the pocket from the interior will complement the edge rush generated by Sam Hubbard and Trey Hendrickson, potentially creating more favorable matchups for Cincinnati’s defense.
Head Coach Zac Taylor expressed optimism about how Lawrence’s presence will affect the team’s defensive scheme.
“Having a player of Dexter’s caliber in the middle of our defense allows us to be more aggressive in our play-calling,” Taylor said. “Offenses will have to account for his presence, which should create opportunities for our linebackers and defensive backs to create plays.”
The signing addresses a clear need for the Bengals, who invested heavily in their offensive weapons during the previous offseason but neglected to upgrade their defensive front. Last season, Cincinnati’s defense recorded only 32 sacks, the third-fewest in the NFL, highlighting the urgency of adding a player with Lawrence’s pedigree.
Lawrence’s familiarity with AFC North competition from his time facing division rivals like the Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers during his Giants tenure should ease his transition to the Bengals. He has recorded 4.5 sacks against Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson in six career matchups, and 3.0 sacks against Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett in four games.
As the Bengals prepare for training camp to commence in late July, Lawrence’s integration into the defensive unit will be closely monitored. His ability to quickly learn Cincinnati’s defensive schemes and build chemistry with his new teammates will be critical to the team’s defensive improvement in 2024.
The Bengals will open their 2024 regular season on September 8 against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. Kickoff is scheduled for 1:00 PM ET (17:00 UTC). Fans can follow the team’s preparations through the Bengals’ official website and social media channels for updates on training camp and preseason activities.
For Bengals fans hoping to see an immediate impact from their new defensive addition, Lawrence’s debut with the team will come in the preseason opener against the Atlanta Falcons on August 10 at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. The game is set to begin at 7:00 PM ET (23:00 UTC).
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