Round 1, #17 Overall: DT Dexter Lawrence, Clemson
Dexter Lawrence has become a staple in the Giants’ beefy defensive line.
The #17 overall pick was a part of a dominant line in college alongside Clelin Farrell and Christain Wilkins. In the NFL, he got to team up with Leo Williams and Dalvin Tomlinson and Lawrence hasn’t disappointed.
Lawrence’s reputation is better known as a run-stuffer due to his massive size at 6-4, 342 pounds. However, his pass rush arsenal is taken for granted and is an underrated aspect of his game. Big Dexy quietly picked up 4 sacks in his second season, increasing his total of 2.5 from last year.
Lawrence has played in all 32 games possible in his career and started 31. He is a durable figure who’s an immovable man in the middle of the Giants 3-4 defense.
Lawrence seemed to improve in year two as he grew more comfortable with a better scheme and more understanding of the pro game in year two.
Dexter’s numbers went up as well. He upped his total tackles on the season from 38 to 53, he had two pass deflections compared to one in 2019, he doubled his tackles for a loss from three to six total, and he had 10 QB hits in 2020, improving from 9 in 2019.
Lawrence appears to be a big part of the future for 2021 and for years to come. He’s an exciting and joyful player to watch who always seems to be having fun whenever he’s on a football field. He will be returning next season as one of the team’s most important defenders.
Year 2 Grade: B+
2021 Role and Beyond:
Lawrence will continue to see time mainly as the man in the middle of the Giants front three on the defensive line.
Expect Lawrence to continue getting better and better. He has a great motor, an infectious laugh, and a bubbly personality that is easy to see in interviews and on the field.
#97 is under contract for at least two more seasons and three if they want to pick up his 5th-year option. Expect Lawrence to fulfill his role and continue being a high-end defensive lineman with the potential to break out and become a household name in 2021.