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USA Today Sports Media Group
USA Today Sports Media Group
Sport
Jeevan Kirkland

Giants’ Dexter Lawrence taking on a more ‘advanced’ role in 2022

For the past few seasons, Dexter Lawrence has been a solid player and hopes to build upon that as his role grows with the New York Giants.

With new defensive coordinator Wink Martindale, the Giants defense will likely look a whole lot different in 2022. Martindale is known for his aggressive defensive schemes as he asks his players to get after the quarterback constantly.

This is a large contrast from the Giants of the past few seasons as the team struggled to garner any pass rush. And Dexter Lawrence has taken notice of this change as he raves about the “aggressive nature” of this defense.

“Just the amount of pressure, simulated pressures. You know, people running wide open if you were watching practice, it’s kind of hard to pick up,” he told reporters on Tuesday.

Within this defense, the former 17th overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft is trying to expand his capabilities and provide versatility to Big Blue.

“I can drop, I can rush off the edge, I can play linebacker, blitz, little things like that,” he said.

Lawrence has added great value for the Giants since being drafted as he has totaled 145 tackles (14 for a loss), nine sacks, two forced fumbles, and five passes defended. He is looking to grow on that production while also helping lead this young group.

“It’s probably just more advanced maybe. I’m becoming an older guy and have more responsibility to be a leader,” Lawrence said of his role.

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