Giants are preparing for Dexter Lawrence blockbuster trade by hosting visit with potential replacement in 2026 NFL Draft

The New York Giants have a massive decision to make with superstar DT Dexter Lawrence, which could lead to them paying him or replacing him with a prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft who is taking a last minute visit.

Josh Taylor — Washington Commanders News Writer
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Jan 29, 2026; Mobile, AL, USA; American defensive tackle Chris Mcclellan (97) of Missouri of Boston College works in a drill during American Senior Bowl practice at Hancock Whitney Stadium. © Vasha Hunt-Imagn Images

The New York Giants have had plenty of drama building up as the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, and it won’t quiet down anytime soon.

Between deciding what to do with star DT Dexter Lawrence, who requested a trade, and which player to take at No. 5 overall, the Giants have to make the right calls. The smoke regarding a Lawrence trade is growing even more, and the Giants might need to draft his replacement next week.

One of their last top-30 visits is a sleeper prospect who could make an impact as a rookie on the defensive line.

The New York Giants are hosting DT Chris McClellan for a top-30 visit

Head coach John Harbaugh and the New York Giants have been studying prospects in the NFL Draft and building out their big board. Their interest in DT prospects has grown, and they’re bringing in an intruguing option to keep an eye on. One the last day of top-30 visits, the Giants are hosting DT Chris McClellan.

McClellan has been a fast riser in the draft cycle after impressing at theSenior Bowl, and he has interest from a lot of teams. The Giants are now on that list, and the day-two prospect can be Lawrence’s replacement if a blockbuster trade happens before or during the NFL Draft.

Why the New York Giants should draft DT Chris McClellan

McClellan is a 6-4, 323-pound DT who plays with powerful hands, and can get after the QB, which the Giants need. He sheds blocks with ease with his explosiveness and strength, and dominates at the line of scrimmage. McClellan finished with eight sacks, 38 pressures and 48 stops in the last two seasons, and his traits will carry over to the NFL.

He’s also a sure tackler in the run game with 6% missed tackle rate in his career, and an 8.1% run-stop rate in 2025. The Giants have to land an impactful DT propect if they trade Lawrence, and McClellan would be a great fit.

McClellan is currently projected to go anywhere between the No. 125 overall to No. 150 overall spots, and it wouldn’t surprise me if the Giants took him at No. 105 overall with his stock rising.

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