What's Happening?
Dexter Lawrence, a key player for the New York Giants, has been struggling to make a significant impact in the early games of the NFL season. Despite being one of the most dominant players in the league, Lawrence has been largely absent from the box score in the Giants' first two losses. According to NextGenStats, he has only managed two quarterback pressures on 66 pass rushes. Last season, Lawrence was the most frequently double-teamed player in the NFL, with 63.8% of his pass rushes facing double teams. Despite this, he achieved nine sacks in 12 games before a dislocated elbow ended his season. This year, he continues to face high double-teaming rates, with 60.6% of snaps seeing him doubled, the fifth-highest in the league.
Why It's Important?
Lawrence's performance is crucial for the Giants, as his ability to pressure the quarterback can significantly influence the team's defensive success. His current struggle to break through double teams could impact the Giants' overall defensive strategy and effectiveness. If Lawrence can overcome these challenges, it could lead to improved defensive outcomes for the team. Conversely, continued difficulties might necessitate strategic adjustments by the Giants' coaching staff to better utilize Lawrence's skills and mitigate the impact of double-teaming.
What's Next?
As the season progresses, Lawrence will need to adapt to the high level of attention he receives from opposing teams. This may involve refining his techniques to capitalize on one-on-one opportunities when they arise. The Giants' coaching staff might also explore new defensive schemes to help Lawrence become more effective despite the double teams. The team's upcoming games will be critical in determining whether these adjustments can lead to improved performance and results.
