The April 19 trade sending All-Pro defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence from the New York Giants to the Cincinnati Bengals for the No. 10 overall pick, followed by a one-year extension through 2028, has locked in the Bengals as the clear destination for Week 1. This move immediately strengthens Cincinnati’s interior defensive line with Lawrence’s proven pass-rush production and multiple Pro Bowl credentials, aligning with the team’s contention window. Trader consensus reflects this established roster status, with minimal implied probability for other clubs. A late training-camp injury landing him on injured reserve, a surprise preseason trade, or an unforeseen holdout remain the primary realistic paths that could shift the outcome before the September opener.