Dexter Lawrence had long been “a dream target” for Bengals, but previous trade requests were rejected
Cincy Jungle • • sports
Key Points:
- The Cincinnati Bengals had been quietly interested in trading for Dexter Lawrence well before their recent trade, making calls as early as April.
- Despite initial rejections, the Bengals remained persistent because they valued Lawrence, who was a standout at Clemson and a challenging opponent while with the Giants.
- Lawrence's public trade request and his desire to play alongside Bengals stars like Joe Burrow, BJ Hill, and Tee Higgins helped facilitate the trade.
- Relationships with former teammates and friends, including Higgins' "Sexy Dexy" celebration at the Pro Bowl, played a role in making the financial aspects of the trade more manageable.
- The trade was discussed in-depth by Paul Dehner Jr. for The Athletic and featured in a recent Bengals-focused show.
