Criticism from Giants Legend
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — Dexter Lawrence addressed the criticism he received from New York Giants icon Carl Banks similarly to how he handles smaller offensive linemen: with resilience and strength. After a tough 38-20 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, Banks expressed dissatisfaction with Lawrence’s performance on his podcast, noting that he didn’t believe the defensive lineman was playing up to his previous standards.
Lawrence’s Response to Criticism
Banks remarked, “Dexter Lawrence, nobody respects you anymore. Nobody,” implying that his play has dropped this season. In response, Lawrence countered Banks’ assessment, arguing that statistics can be misleading and highlighting the frequency with which he faces double-teams as a testament to his impact.
Lawrence’s Impact on the Field
“Those are strong words,” Lawrence said, unfazed by the critique. He noted that he is currently being double-teamed at a league-leading rate of 74.9% during passing plays, a figure only slightly up from last year’s 74.5% rate. When asked about Banks’ comments, Lawrence simply described them as “delusional.”
Performance Metrics
Lawrence maintains that he believes he is performing well, with current stats including 20 tackles, half a sack, and an interception over eight games. While these numbers might not match last season’s totals, where he recorded 44 tackles and nine sacks before an injury, he attributes his current metrics to the intense defensive strategies he faces.
Support from Coaching Staff
Giants defensive line coach Andre Patterson expressed strong support for Lawrence. He pointed out that no other defensive lineman in the league encounters the level of double-teaming that Lawrence does, asserting that this situation enables other players to capitalize on one-on-one blocking opportunities.
Surprised Reactions
The harsh words from Banks, a former player and current commentator, surprised both Lawrence and other team members, who felt it might be more constructive to deliver such critiques privately. Bobby Okereke, a teammate, speculated that Banks might have been attempting to motivate Lawrence.
Looking Ahead
Lawrence, who has made three Pro Bowls and two All-Pro teams in his career, remains focused on improving. Should the absence of double-teams lead to greater individual performance, he has expressed readiness for that challenge, humorously suggesting he might enjoy being underestimated. “Let’s say this, I hope people start trying to disrespect me,” he remarked.
