New York Giants general manager Joe Schoen made a proactive move when he picked up the fifth-year option on Dexter Lawrence’s contract. Lawrence had been disappointing over the first three years of his career, but he’s putting together an All-Pro caliber season in 2022, littered with pass rush contributions and great run-stopping metrics.
In fact, Lawrence hosts a 91.8 pass rush grade, according to PFF. He’s accumulated 39 total pressures, including six sacks, 14 quarterback hits, and 19 hurries. He’s also added 22 stops in the run game and 27 tackles. He has doubled his sack totals from 2021 in 160 fewer snaps, showcasing his efficiency.
The New York Giants need to extend Dexter Lawrence:
It is no surprise that Schoen is looking to extend Lawrence now instead of waiting until his fifth-year option is over. He seems to be the focal point on defense for Big Blue, especially if the team moves on from Leonard Williams and his astronomical price tag next season.
“Dexter Lawrence has had a phenomenal season. There’s not a lot of stats to show what he’s doing. But what he’s doing as far as the run game and just wrecking things up the middle. Defensive coordinator Don Martindale … he’s got one year left in his deal but this is the kind of guy that would want a contract extension in the offseason
According to NFL insider Mike Garafolo via NFL Network.
Even if Wink Martindale walks to become a head coach in the future, retaining Lawrence is essential to the Giants’ long-term plans.
Normally, the team has allowed interior defenders to walk in free agency, but given Lawrence’s pass rush numbers this season, it is safe to say he has proven his worth and has justified a new deal.
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