Dexter Lawrence has asked for a trade

It is no secret that the Clemson Tigers have had a lot of talent at defensive tackle go on to the National Football League. Now, perhaps their most talented player is looking elsewhere. 

ESPN's Adam Schefter reports that Giants star Dexter Lawrence requested a trade on Monday. Until a change is made, the former Tiger won't participate in the offseason workout program either. 

Since Lawrence left Clemson in 2019 to pursue a professional career, he has been a part of the Giants. The upcoming eighth-year defensive tackle is a two-time All-Pro, beginning his career under head coach Dabo Swinney and defensive coordinator Brent Venables in 2016. 

He was part of both national championship teams, recording two All-American honors and being an All-ACC selection, all three years Lawrence was at Clemson from 2016-19. It was one of the most dominant tenures for a defensive tackle in program history, and Lawrence finished with the trophies to prove it. 

In his time with the Tigers, he finished with 134 total tackles, 20 tackles for loss and 11 sacks across 40 games played under Swinney. 36 of those games were starts as well. He was a cornerstone piece on the Clemson defensive line that featured Christian Wilkins, Clelin Ferrell and Austin Bryant. This super group was known as the “Power Rangers."

He was chosen 17th overall by the Giants as the main piece of a defensive line that has been shuffled over the last few seasons. However, that could change if the argument between him and New York continues to proceed unanswered. 

In 2026, whichever team Lawrence ends up with will have an advantage in the trenches, getting a former All-Pro with plenty of reasons to return to that level.