Colin Cowherd DISRESPECTS Dexter Lawrence, Cincinnati Bengals With Brutal Snub | Reaction, Analysis

Reid Maus reacts to Colin Cowherd's "Top 10 Offseason Additions" list. In his June 2, 2026 episode of The Herd, Colin Cowherd released his ranking of the NFL’s top 10 offseason additions. The list featured blockbuster trades like Myles Garrett to the Rams, A.J. Brown to the Patriots, Jaylen Waddle to the Broncos, Tyler Linderbaum to the Bears, and others including Mike Evans, Trent McDuffie, and Kenneth Walker III.

------------------------------------

Check out our partners ⤵️

Book your appointment at Richter & Phillips today: richterphillips.com/pages/chatterbox-sports

Apply today at Sharefax Credit Union: Sharefax.org or call 513-753-2440

Learn more about our friends at QC Kinetix! Call (513) 655-3356 or visit qckinetix.com

The Anthony Muñoz 78 Cigar! Get your box today: anthonymunoz.com/anthony-munoz-78-cigars

It’s OK not to be OK! Need Help? Call or text 988 DAY OR NIGHT or visit mantherapy.org

Get 20% off sitewide at Homage with promo code CHATTER at checkout: homage.com/CBOX

-----------------------------------

Conspicuously absent was Dexter Lawrence’s move from the New York Giants to the Cincinnati Bengals. The trade, which occurred in April, sent the three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle to Cincinnati in exchange for the No. 10 overall pick in the 2026 draft. For many analysts, this was one of the most significant transactions of the spring — a proven interior disruptor joining a Bengals team desperate for defensive help around Joe Burrow. Lawrence, despite a somewhat down 2025 season, remains a massive presence at 6-4, 342 pounds, capable of collapsing pockets and stopping the run. Yet Cowherd chose not to include him in his top 10. Cowherd’s omission likely stems from his longstanding preference for evaluating moves based on immediate championship upside and roster fit rather than raw talent alone. He has often criticized teams that overpay in assets for veterans when youth and draft capital offer higher long-term ceilings.

In this case, the Bengals surrendered a premium first-round pick for a player entering his late 20s who required a contract extension. Cowherd may view it as a win-now gamble that doesn’t dramatically transform Cincinnati’s defense into an elite unit, especially if Lawrence’s production continues to fluctuate. By contrast, moves like Garrett to the Rams or Brown to the Patriots aligned better with Cowherd’s narrative of elevating already talented rosters with difference-makers. Garrett, a reigning Defensive Player of the Year, pairs with elite pass-rush talent. Brown gives a young quarterback a true No. 1 target. Lawrence, while dominant in flashes, may not have the same “ceiling-raiser” aura in Cowherd’s eyes for a Bengals squad still searching for consistency on that side of the ball. Critics of the omission argue it undervalues interior defensive line play. Elite DTs like Lawrence command double teams and free up edge rushers, a ripple effect that’s harder to quantify than splashy receiver or edge additions. Giants fans and Bengals supporters saw the deal as a clear win for both sides: New York gained draft capital under new coach John Harbaugh, while Cincinnati added a cornerstone for their trenches.

Cowherd’s list reflects his signature style — provocative, big-picture, and unafraid to buck consensus. Leaving Lawrence out sparked debate among listeners about whether star DTs get enough respect in modern rankings compared to skill-position stars. Whether this proves prescient or shortsighted will depend on how Lawrence performs in Cincinnati’s scheme and whether the Bengals reach the postseason with their upgraded front. For now, it highlights Cowherd’s willingness to rank moves based on projected impact rather than name value alone.