The Cincinnati Bengals have made a significant move to enhance their defense by trading for Dexter Lawrence, a three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle, from the New York Giants. In exchange for the No. 10 overall pick in this year's NFL Draft, the Bengals secured Lawrence and signed him to a one-year, $28 million extension, ensuring his presence for the next three seasons. Despite this acquisition, ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith expressed skepticism regarding the Bengals' ability to capitalize on their roster improvements. He pointed out the team's history of unmet expectations and questioned head coach Zac Taylor's readiness for the season, stating, “They ain't never ready to play come September.” Smith highlighted the recurring injuries to quarterback Joe Burrow, who has missed significant time in three of his six seasons, attributing these setbacks to the team's failure to adequately protect him. The Bengals, who reached the AFC Championship game and the Super Bowl in 2021 and 2022, have struggled in recent years, failing to make the playoffs for the last three seasons. Smith suggests that a return to postseason play may be necessary for him and others to regain faith in the Bengals.