A new report suggests that the failed trade from March played a major role in the New York Giants and Cincinnati Bengals completing the Dexter Lawrence deal earlier than expected.
On Thursday night, the Giants had not one, but two picks in the top 10 of the NFL Draft. Of course, he was selected at No. 5 after a poor 4-13 performance last season. But they added the 10th overall selection after completing the long-rumored trade of tackle Dexter Lawrence last week.
The three-time Pro Bowler wanted a big pay raise despite having a season left on the extension he signed a few years ago. The veterans were no longer interested in granting his request after a year of decline, and both parties realized that a divorce was necessary. Luckily for Big Blue, the Bengals were willing to give up a premium pick in Round 1 for his services.
However, according to Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, Giants fans did not learn about the second pick until Thursday night.
“Based on conversations with multiple league sources, it is believed that the unsuccessful Max Crosby trade was a key factor in getting the trade deal done early. As one source said, both teams were concerned about Lawrence passing his physical. Pre-Crosby, it would have been less of a concern.”
-Mike Florio
Florio suggests that the likely plan was to complete a deal during Round 1. However, the Bengals did not want to risk giving up the 10th pick without being completely sure Lawrence was fully healthy.
Last month, the Las Vegas Raiders and Baltimore Ravens agreed to a blockbuster deal that will see the five-time Pro Bowler swapped for a trade package that included two first-round picks. However, shortly after reports surfaced about a deal, the Ravens’ medical staff did not like what they saw following a physical and advised the team to void the deal.
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