PFF names Dexter Lawrence among NFL’s top interior DL

Over the last two years, defensive lineman Dexter Lawrence has developed into a dynamic force in the middle of the Giants’ defense.

As he prepares for his sixth NFL season, the 26-year-old is earning praise from members of the media.

Pro Football Focus’ Sam Monson ranked the top 32 interior defensive linemen in the NFL heading into the 2024 campaign, with the Giants’ two-time All-Pro landing all the way up at No. 2.

“What separates Lawrence from other defensive tackles is his elite pass-rushing production, primarily from a nose tackle alignment,” wrote Monson. “Others may be nose tackles in name only, but Lawrence has 81 total pressures over the past two seasons when lined up as a nose tackle. No other player has more than 16.”

Lawrence was once again one of the most dominant interior defensive linemen in the NFL last season.

He registered 4.5 sacks, seven tackles for loss, 21 quarterback hits and two passes defensed to go with his 53 total tackles (32 solo). He did this despite missing the game against the Patriots and playing limited snaps in the final five games of the season.

Lawrence also recorded 65 total pressures on the season, which topped his previous career-high of 63 set last year.