Former Clemson star Dexter Lawrence agrees to contract extension

Dexter Lawrence is heading to Cincinnati, and the Bengals made it clear right away how much they value him. After trading for the former Clemson football standout, Cincinnati agreed to a one-year, $28 million extension that gets added onto the final two seasons of his current deal, which already pays him around $20 million per year. It’s a major commitment, especially considering the Bengals gave up the No.

10 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft to land him. That move gives the Giants two top-10 selections heading into draft week. The Bengals believe Lawrence can be a difference-maker in the middle of their defense.

Team leadership pointed to his ability to impact not just his own play, but the players around him, as a big reason for making the deal. Lawrence also steps into a familiar environment. He’ll be reunited with former Clemson teammate Tee Higgins, and joins a defense that already includes Myles Murphy and Barrett Carter.

That built-in chemistry could help speed up the transition. For Lawrence, the mindset is simple. He sees himself as a tone-setter.