The Cincinnati Bengals made one of the biggest splashes of the 2026 offseason when they acquired All-Pro defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II. Through just a handful of training camp practices, it’s already becoming apparent that the veteran’s impact extends well beyond what he’ll do on Sundays.
No one knows that better than veteran center Ted Karras.
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Speaking with reporters following Saturday’s practice, Karras offered glowing praise for Lawrence after spending the first week of camp battling him in the trenches.
“Better bring your f-ing stuff when you’re going against Dexter Lawrence.”
That’s about as strong of an endorsement as an offensive lineman can give.
Karras went on to compare the challenge of practicing against Lawrence to facing the loaded defensive fronts he experienced during his time with the New England Patriots, emphasizing just how much the four-time Pro Bowler is elevating the level of competition every single day.
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Iron sharpens iron
Training camp often revolves around one simple football cliché: Iron sharpens iron.
In Cincinnati, that saying appears to be coming to life.
Lawrence has consistently disrupted plays throughout the opening practices, forcing the Bengals’ offensive line to match his intensity. Rather than viewing it as a nuisance, Karras sees it as exactly what this team needs.
Earlier this offseason, Karras called Lawrence “probably the best nose tackle in the last 30 years,” praising his rare combination of size, power and athleticism. After finally sharing the practice field with him every day, it doesn’t sound like he’s changed his opinion one bit.
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Karras also believes the daily battles are helping mold what could become the best run-blocking offensive line he’s been a part of in Cincinnati. If the Bengals’ offense can consistently move one of the NFL’s premier defensive tackles in practice, Sundays against opposing defenses should feel a bit easier.
Setting a new tone on defense
Lawrence’s influence has been noticeable almost immediately.
Whether it’s stuffing runs, celebrating with emphatic energy after a stop, or pushing teammates to compete harder, the 350-pound defensive tackle has brought an edge that has been evident throughout camp. That competitive fire has even spilled over into some spirited exchanges with Karras, though both veterans have made it clear it’s all rooted in making each other better.
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It’s exactly the type of leadership Cincinnati hoped it was acquiring.
A promising early sign
Training camp praise should always be taken with some caution. Pads have only recently come on, and real football is still weeks away.
Still, when one of the team’s most respected veterans is repeatedly talking about the difference a newcomer has made after only a few practices, it’s worth paying attention.
The Bengals didn’t trade for Dexter Lawrence simply to improve their defensive line on paper. They brought him in to raise the standard throughout the entire roster.
If Ted Karras’ comments are any indication, that process is already well underway.
