No Dexter Lawrence looms over the start of John Harbaugh's first offseason program as Giants coach
John Harbaugh’s first offseason program as coach of the New York Giants started Tuesday and came with a significant absence looming over it. Dexter Lawrence was one of three players not present, following word that the three-time Pro Bowl nose tackle had asked for a trade . Harbaugh said the Giants had good conversations with Lawrence's agent, Joel Segal, and understood where that side was coming from.
As a result, he wasn't surprised about the situation, noting participating is voluntary and estimating “the prospects are going to be high” for Lawrence to stick around. “Speaking for the Giants, we want Dexter here. I believe Dexter wants to be here.
That’s a good formula,” Harbaugh said on a video call with reporters. “But there’s business involved. It’s a business proposition.
We know it’s pro football. These things happen every year pretty much on every team. ” Harbaugh spent the past 18 season with the Baltimore Ravens, coached them to a Super Bowl, and two years ago dealt with a trade request from quarterback Lamar Jackson , which got resolved.
Familiarity helped that situation, though Harbaugh said this also calls for a patient approach. Lawrence, 28, has two years left on his contract, set to earn $20 million and $19. 5 million, respectively.