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Dexter Lawrence is currently one of the most underrated players in the NFL.
One of the rarest archetypes in the league is a nose tackle that has some semblance of pass rush ability. The ability to get interior pressure is a hallmark for a strong defense. Six of the last seven Super Bowl champions have featured an elite pass rushing defensive tackle (Jalen Carter, Chris Jones, Aaron Donald) and the seventh was this season's Seattle team, who was able to generate pressure through incredibly innovative defensive playcalling. With apologies to defensive coordinator Al Golden, I don’t expect that playcalling to be displayed in Cincinnati.
Lawrence’s value is difficult to predict, but his impact is clear. Dating back to his time as a Power Ranger along Clemsonfootball’s defensive line, Dexter has been incredible at simply soaking up blockers. When you think of that Clemson line, you likely don’t initially picture Lawrence barrelling into the pocket and bringing down the quarterback. You’re probably picturing Clelin Ferrell, Austin Bryant, Christian Lawrence, or even a blitzing Ben Boulware. Behind each of those impactful pass rushers was Dex, taking on double and triple teams, and putting his teammates in one-on-one situations.
This is what makes the trade so perfect for Cinci. The Bengals have immeasurable talent, and have taken that talent all the way to the Super Bowl. With a healthy Burrow paired with two of the top receivers in the NFL, Cincinnati is hoping to replicate the ‘07 Colts, with Manning paired alongside Marvin Harrison and Reggie Wayne.
The problem is the Bengals weaknesses are as daunting as their strengths, and that starts with the defense. Bringing in a player who simply makes everyone else’s job easier is the best thing this team could do for their defense. Lawrence allows the C+ pass rushers (with apologies to Clemson’s Myles Murphy) more free rushes and one-on-one chances.
It allows the unproven linebackers (with apologies to Clemson’s Barrett Carter) more margin for error in the run game. Lawrence makes everyone’s job a little easier, and for a team that just needs their defense to stop making every opposing quarterback look as talented as Joe Burrow throwing to Jamar Chase, he goes a long way toward bringing them back to contention.
Contact us @Clemson_Wire on X, and like our page on Facebook for ongoing coverage of Clemson Tigers news and notes, plus opinions.
This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: Dexter Lawrence's fit with the Bengals heading into 2026, what to expect
Continue reading...
One of the rarest archetypes in the league is a nose tackle that has some semblance of pass rush ability. The ability to get interior pressure is a hallmark for a strong defense. Six of the last seven Super Bowl champions have featured an elite pass rushing defensive tackle (Jalen Carter, Chris Jones, Aaron Donald) and the seventh was this season's Seattle team, who was able to generate pressure through incredibly innovative defensive playcalling. With apologies to defensive coordinator Al Golden, I don’t expect that playcalling to be displayed in Cincinnati.
Lawrence’s value is difficult to predict, but his impact is clear. Dating back to his time as a Power Ranger along Clemsonfootball’s defensive line, Dexter has been incredible at simply soaking up blockers. When you think of that Clemson line, you likely don’t initially picture Lawrence barrelling into the pocket and bringing down the quarterback. You’re probably picturing Clelin Ferrell, Austin Bryant, Christian Lawrence, or even a blitzing Ben Boulware. Behind each of those impactful pass rushers was Dex, taking on double and triple teams, and putting his teammates in one-on-one situations.
This is what makes the trade so perfect for Cinci. The Bengals have immeasurable talent, and have taken that talent all the way to the Super Bowl. With a healthy Burrow paired with two of the top receivers in the NFL, Cincinnati is hoping to replicate the ‘07 Colts, with Manning paired alongside Marvin Harrison and Reggie Wayne.
The problem is the Bengals weaknesses are as daunting as their strengths, and that starts with the defense. Bringing in a player who simply makes everyone else’s job easier is the best thing this team could do for their defense. Lawrence allows the C+ pass rushers (with apologies to Clemson’s Myles Murphy) more free rushes and one-on-one chances.
It allows the unproven linebackers (with apologies to Clemson’s Barrett Carter) more margin for error in the run game. Lawrence makes everyone’s job a little easier, and for a team that just needs their defense to stop making every opposing quarterback look as talented as Joe Burrow throwing to Jamar Chase, he goes a long way toward bringing them back to contention.
Contact us @Clemson_Wire on X, and like our page on Facebook for ongoing coverage of Clemson Tigers news and notes, plus opinions.
This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: Dexter Lawrence's fit with the Bengals heading into 2026, what to expect
Continue reading...
