The New York Giants have made a significant move by trading their star defensive tackle, Dexter Lawrence II, to the Cincinnati Bengals, acquiring a valuable asset in return. According to NFL Network insiders Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo, the Giants have received the No. 10 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. With this latest development, the Giants now possess the No. 5 and No. 10 picks in the upcoming draft, setting the stage for a potentially impactful selection process.
This trade, while it strengthens their draft capital, also poses a challenge for the Giants as they bid farewell to one of their defensive stalwarts. Lawrence has played a pivotal role in the Giants' defensive front; his absence will be felt as the team seeks to rebuild and improve its roster.
Assessing the Impact of Lawrence's Departure
Trading away a player of Lawrence's caliber indicates a shift in strategy for the Giants. This decision may open up opportunities for younger talent to emerge and make an immediate impact. The organization is now tasked with selecting prospects who can step up in key positions and help enhance the team's competitive edge.
Potential Picks for the Giants
Here are three draft prospects the Giants are reportedly eyeing as they look to fill the void left by Lawrence:
1. Jordyn Tyson – Wide Receiver
The Giants have shown a keen interest in Jordyn Tyson throughout the pre-draft process. General manager Joe Schoen even traveled to Arizona to watch Tyson's workout and share a meal before the event. While selecting him at the No. 5 spot may seem ambitious, the Giants could feel comfortable selecting him with their No. 10 pick.
Tyson’s college career has been marred by injuries, yet he has demonstrated considerable potential. After a strong freshman season at the University of Colorado in 2022, which ended prematurely due to a severe knee injury, Tyson rebounded at Arizona State. He finished the 2024 campaign with 75 catches for 1,101 yards and 10 touchdowns. Despite further challenges during the 2025 season, where he recorded 61 receptions for 711 yards and eight touchdowns in just nine games, Tyson remains an enticing prospect who could complement Malik Nabers, who is currently recovering from an ACL injury.
2. Jeremiyah Love – Running Back
Jeremiyah Love from Notre Dame is another candidate who may interest the Giants as they hold the No. 5 pick. Reports suggest that the organization, including head coach John Harbaugh, is particularly high on Love and it would be difficult for them to overlook him should he be available.
Love finished the 2023 season with an impressive slate, landing himself in the No. 3 position for the Heisman Trophy. With 1,372 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns over 12 games, he also collected 27 receptions for 280 yards and three scores as a receiver. Adding a player of Love's caliber could redefine the Giants' backfield, especially considering the presence of Cam Skattebo, who is recovering from a dislocated ankle.
3. Caleb Downs – Safety
Another vital consideration for the Giants is Caleb Downs from Ohio State. The standout safety is among the top defensive prospects in the draft and was named the No. 1 player in the class by Bleacher Report’s NFL Scouting Department. In his collegiate career, notably in the 2025 season, Downs registered an impressive 68 tackles, five tackles for loss, two interceptions, and two forced fumbles.
Downs is not only talented but also comes with accolades, having won the Jim Thorpe Award for the nation’s top defensive back and earning Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year honors. Should the Giants decide to go this route, Downs could fill a significant role in a defense that struggled last season, ranking 26th in the league by allowing an average of 25.8 points per game.
The Road Ahead for the Giants
The Giants are at an intriguing crossroads. The trade of Dexter Lawrence II has provided them with a unique opportunity to reshape their roster through the draft. The pressure is now on the front office to make the right decisions with their two high picks. The selections made could not only determine the immediate future of the franchise but also set the foundation for future successes.
As the draft approaches, all eyes will be on which players the Giants will choose, especially at the No. 5 and No. 10 spots. With a more robust draft capital on their side, they have the chance to rebuild their team strategically and restore their standing in the league.
