New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence is just finding his stride.
Lawrence made his second consecutive Pro Bowl appearance last year after racking up 4.5 sacks and 53 total tackles in 16 games for the Giants. However, after New York had a disappointing season, Week 1 against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday is a chance to start anew.
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New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II, #97, looks on before the game against the Green Bay Packers at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on December 11, 2023. (Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports)
“It's very important to get off to a fast start,” he told Fox News Digital days before the team took the field for its first regular-season game of 2024. “We preach it every day and I think the guys are buying into it and they're having a good week of practice so far. So I'm excited.”
The Giants have historically had great defensive players like Michael Strahan, Lawrence Taylor, Justin Tuck… and many more. Establishing a winning mentality starts at the top of the organization and carries over to the players at their practice facilities.
It's been a few years since the Giants were in the top 10 in any major defensive category. Now Lawrence must lead the pack.
THE CHIEFS DEFEATED THE RAVENS AND STARTED THE QUEST FOR THE THIRD CONSECUTIVE SUPER BOWL ON THE RIGHT FOOT
New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II, #97, collides with Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott, #4, after the ball was fumbled on Sunday, September 10, 2023. (Kevin R. Wexler/USA TODAY NETWORK)
“I think it all starts with the players and helping everyone understand the importance of every little detail and what it takes to win a game,” Lawrence said. “As leaders of this team, I think we've done a good job of helping guys understand the importance and appreciate every moment we have here.”
Lawrence also earned Defensive Player of the Year votes last year.
With his rising star status, Lawrence partnered with Campbell's Chunky for their Campbell's Sacks Hunger program. For every sack of baseball earned in the NFL, Chunky will donate 1,000 meals to feed America.
He was surrounded by cans of Campbell's Chunky as he spoke to Fox News Digital.
New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence, #97, speaks to reporters after the second day of training camp at the Quest Diagnostics training facility in East Rutherford, New Jersey on July 27, 2023. (Danielle Parhizkaran-USA TODAY Sports)
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“It's exciting,” he said. “You grew up watching these commercials. My mom was a little upset that she couldn't be in it, but… you grew up watching this and dreaming of one day this happening and now you're a part of it and you see how it really impacts the world and I think that's why I'm really excited.”
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