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Dexter Lawrence’s Salary Demands Could Make Giants' Decision Easier

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Zahid Rashid | Last updated Apr 8, 2026 7:18 AM ET

Former John Harbaugh has done all the right things since taking over the New York Giants job. But on Monday, he faced his first major setback of the offseason when All-Pro defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence requested a trade after stalled contract negotiations.

Lawrence, a 2019 first-round pick, has spent his entire career with the Giants and has established himself as one of the league’s top interior defenders, earning three Pro Bowl selections and two second-team All-Pro honors over seven seasons.

He signed a four-year, $87.5 million extension in 2023, making him one of the highest-paid interior defenders at the time. However, the market has since skyrocketed, and after settling for a $3 million raise last season, Lawrence is now seeking a new deal with high demands.

New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence (97) reacts during the fourth quarter against the Los Angeles Chargers at MetLife Stadium. Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Lawrence is set to earn a base salary of $18.5 million on his current deal in 2026, but according to SNY’s Connor Hughes, he is seeking a contract paying between $30 million and $35 million annually.

"The decline in production likely prevents Lawrence from resetting the market, but one source expected him to demand $30 million annually. Another front office source, because of the salary cap increase, foresaw something closer to $35 million," Hughes wrote.

For context, Kansas City’s Chris Jones is currently the highest-paid interior lineman at $31.75 million per year. Lawrence’s current AAV of $22.5 million ranks him 12th, but if the Giants meet his demands, he could become the next highest-paid interior lineman in the league.

Why the Giants Are Unlikely To Meet Lawrence’s Demands

Lawrence’s value is undeniable. Over seven seasons, he has recorded 341 tackles and 30.5 sacks, including a career-high nine sacks in 2024, which earned him a $3 million raise in incentives.

However, last season marked a significant decline. Lawrence posted a career-low 0.5 sacks and eight quarterback hits, alongside 31 tackles, four passes defended, and one interception. Hughes noted that Lawrence “played last season overweight and out of shape,” and with no full sack in his last 22 games, it’s reasonable to question whether his peak performance is behind him.

While the Giants could receive a late 2026 first-round pick, a 2027 first-round pick, or a second- and fifth-round pick in a trade for Lawrence, that return is unlikely to help replicate his production and impact immediately. On the other hand, paying him over $30 million annually would limit roster flexibility, especially with New York holding just $7 million in available cap space.

Many around the league, including Hughes, expect the Giants to eventually retain Lawrence, but he would likely need to lower his demands, potentially to around $27 million per year. Otherwise, his high salary demands make it easier for the Giants to consider trading him and give Harbaugh the flexibility to reshape the roster.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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