The Giants defensive leader is setting the tone for others to follow.
Dexter Lawrence is the tone-setter for the New York Giants defensive unit.
In the midst of an incredible season individually, Lawrence is focused on helping his team get back on track as the season rolls along. As a leader, if that means addressing something that shouldn’t happen (such as a player dogging plays), he’s more than willing to step up and say something.
Lawrence spoke to the media on Thursday ahead of the Giants Monday Night Football matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Here are some things the two-time Pro Bowler had to say.
Lawrence discusses Deonte Banks’ lack of hustle play
“It’s not acceptable. He knows it. We addressed it and that’s the type of thing that. We don’t accept it as a defense.”
How do the Giants prevent it from happening moving forward?
“When you see it, you address it. I think that’s the first time something like that happened. So, we addressed it and now everybody knows that’s not acceptable.”
Does Lawrence think about the potential Defensive Player of the Year Award?
“Honestly, I don’t know. My focus is winning, honestly. I’m going to keep doing what I can to help us win. That’s what I’m showing every Sunday, and Thursday, or this week, Monday, that I go out there. That’s the most important thing. If I play well, it gives my team the best chance to win and that’s what I’m going to do.”
Lawrence’s thoughts on Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt
“He’s elite. He’ll be a Hall of Famer.”
What makes T.J. Watt elite?
“The way he attacks the game. He keeps it simple; I think. He doesn’t wow you with too much. His plays are flashy, but he doesn’t wow you with too many different moves or anything like that. He just knows how to play football, and I think that’s the most important thing.”
On John Mara’s support of Brian Daboll and Joe Schoen
“I think it’s important. It’s hard to build a culture when you keep recycling and you have to keep starting over, keep starting over. I think they’re doing a good job, you know, getting the right people in here. This is the best team I’ve probably been a part of since I’ve been here. We just got to find a way to get it done on Sunday. I respect Mr. Mara for saying that because they work hard, and they have the right people in here. We just got to show up as players and play.”
What is the current message for this Giants’ team?
“The message is, why not? Why can’t we not streak? Why can’t we not go on a run? That’s the belief factor that the leaders and the players have in here. I think we’re close. I think, in times like this, you got to grow even closer and that’s what we’re doing. We’re having good days at practice. We’re coming out here competing. Having good days in the meeting and meeting extra. I don’t think it’s pulling us apart.”
