The New York Giants are currently going through a rebuilding phase right now. They have a lot of young players on the roster, and one of them includes 21-year-old rookie defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence. Dexter Lawrence stepping up is key for the Giants defensive line
He was taken with the 17th overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. Many people believe that Lawrence was the best Clemson defensive lineman taken in this draft.
Defensive end Clelin Ferrell was taken fourth overall by the Oakland Raiders, and defensive tackle Christian Wilkins was taken 13th overall by the Miami Dolphins.
Dexter Lawrence turning heads
Dexter Lawrence is already turning heads in training camp, and he is projected to be one of the starters on the defensive line for New York. The Giants play a 3-4 defensive scheme and Lawrence will most likely play up the middle. But because he has been dominating offensive line practice, Dexter Lawrence could see some time at defensive end as well.
He is 6’4″ and weighs 342 lbs. In 13 games played last season with Clemson. Lawrence recorded 36 tackles, and seven of them were a tackle for loss. He also recorded 1.5 sacks, picked off one pass, broke up three passes, and recovered one fumble.
What Lawrence brings to the table
Dexter Lawrence uses his speed to stop the run and also rush the passer. Even if he doesn’t record a lot of sacks, Lawrence could force some turnovers with his raw athleticism.
He was the 11th defensive player taken in the 2019 NFL Draft. This draft class was deep on the defensive side of the ball. One of the reasons why they had this pick was because the New York Giants traded away wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. to the Cleveland Browns.
The other projected starters on the defensive line will be 23-year-old B.J. Hill and 25-year-old Dalvin Tomlinson.
New York only recorded 30 sacks in 2018. Dexter Lawrence stepping up as a rookie could be one of the reasons why this defense takes a big step forward in the 2019 season. He could also be one of the favorites to win the Defensive Rookie of the Year Award this season.
