Even as the NFL approaches the 2026 NFL Draft, teams continue shaping their rosters in advance. Many franchises are actively working to extend contracts with players already on their rosters.
On Monday, news broke that New York Giants star defender Dexter Lawrence officially requested a trade after contract extension talks with the team fell through.
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The Giants likely won’t move Lawrence without receiving a king’s ransom in return — but that doesn’t mean a team won’t step up and meet the price.
MORE: All-Pro defender requests trade before Giants’ first workout under John Harbaugh
Here are three teams that should call the Giants as soon as possible:
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Feb 24, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Tennessee Titans coach Robert Saleh speaks at the NFL Scouting Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Tennessee Titans
The Titans make a lot of sense, as they could use reinforcements on the defensive line. They also lead the NFL in available cap space, with over $60 million to spend.
Tennessee holds strong draft capital, which could appeal to the Giants. Lawrence would not only warrant a top-10 pick but could also justify an additional early second-round selection.
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After losing Sebastian Joseph-Day in free agency, the Titans could significantly upgrade their defense by replacing him with Lawrence.
Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones
Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones speaks with referee Adrian Hill. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Dallas Cowboys
It seems like every major defensive star gets linked to the Cowboys — Trey Hendrickson, Maxx Crosby, and now Lawrence.
The chances of Dallas actually trading for Lawrence remain very low, but that likely won’t stop Jerry Jones from at least making a call to check in.
MORE: NFL analyst reveals Rueben Bain Jr. stunning draft outlook
Since losing Micah Parsons, the Cowboys have searched for answers on defense. Perhaps the Giants could push for a deal centered around a franchise-tagged wide receiver in return.
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) looks for hands to shake after the fourth quarter of the NFL Week 18 game between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Cleveland Browns at Paycor Stadium in Downtown Cincinnati on Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026. The Browns kicked a last second field goal to win 20-18.
Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals may face one of the bleakest defensive outlooks in the NFL. They’ve lost Hendrickson along with several key starters from their secondary.
If they want to make a splash and energize both fans and Joe Burrow, addressing the defense is the clear move.
Lawrence’s presence could help develop the Bengals’ young EDGE rushers and, in turn, ease the burden on the secondary as the unit continues to take shape.