New York Giants defensive lineman Dexter Lawrence was already well into his rookie campaign when the team acquired Leonard Williams from the New York Jets, thrusting an experienced veteran into the fray.
What Williams ultimately brought to the table was far more than Lawrence initially anticipated. And after spending a half a season with the former first-round pick, Lawrence is now convinced that the football masses completely undervalue Williams.
“He brings experience and a great work ethic to our group because he makes you want to outwork him in practice every day, where he goes harder than anyone,” Lawrence told Pat Ragazzo of Sports Illustrated. “A lot of people don’t understand the value he brings to a defense, but I know firsthand what kind of impact he makes.”
Lawrence also likes the idea of potentially adding his former teammate, Clemson linebacker Isaiah Simmons, to the defense, where he would play behind both Lawrence and Williams.
“I would love it if he winds up here,” Lawrence said. “Just to have another familiar face and winning attitude in the building who knows what he’s doing and knows how to win is an important factor that can go a very long way.
“His skill set is rare to come by. Having him around would be great in a lot of different ways. His ability to rush the passer and drop back in coverage would give our defense a boost in both areas where he excels. . . There’s no doubt in my mind that he and (Ohio State edge rusher) Chase Young are the two best defensive players in this draft.”
As far as his own offseason routine and second-year goals, Lawrence is focused on becoming more of a pass rusher and more of a leader.
“Learning the little techniques on how to get to the quarterback was a big goal of mine this off-season. I want to become a more consistent pass rusher and disrupt the pocket on a regular basis,” said Lawrence.
“I want to keep my confidence and get things rolling by being the best leader I can be. My mindset is to lead by example with charisma and bring a family attitude to the team. I want to let my teammates know I’m playing for them, and they will hopefully do the same by playing for me.”
