New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence is in great form.
Lawrence appeared in 16 games for the Giants last year, recording 4.5 sacks and 53 tackles, and was selected to his second straight Pro Bowl, but Sunday's Week 1 game against the Minnesota Vikings will be a chance for him to start fresh after New York's disappointing season.
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New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II (No. 97) watches before a game against the Green Bay Packers at MetLife Stadium on Dec. 11, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports)
“It's really important to get off to a good start,” he told Fox News Digital just days before the team plays its first regular-season game of 2024. “We've been preaching that every day and I think the guys have bought into that and have had a good week of practice so far, so I'm excited.”
The Giants have had some historically great defensive players, including Michael Strahan, Lawrence Taylor and Justin Tuck. Establishing a winning mindset starts at the top of the organization and trickles down, with players being reminded at the practice facility.
It's been several years since the Giants have ranked in the top 10 in any major defensive category, and it's up to Lawrence to lead the team.
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On Sunday, Sept. 10, 2023, New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II (No. 97) crashes into Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (No. 4) after the ball is released. (Kevin R. Wexler/USA TODAY Network)
“I think it starts with the players and getting everybody to understand the importance of all the little things and what it takes to win games,” Lawrence said. “As a leader on this team, I think I've helped the players understand and cherish the importance of every moment here.”
Lawrence also won Defensive Player of the Year last year.
As his stardom grew, Lawrence partnered with Campbell's Chunky to participate in Campbell's Sack Hunger program: for every sack made in the NFL, Chunky donates 1,000 meals to Feeding America.
During his interview with Fox News Digital, he was surrounded by cans of Campbell's Chunkies.
New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence (No. 97) speaks to reporters following the second day of training camp at the Quest Diagnostics Training Facility in East Rutherford, New Jersey, on July 27, 2023. (Daniel Palkhizkaran-USA Today Sports)
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“I'm excited,” he said. “You grew up watching these commercials, and my mom was a little disappointed that I wasn't going to be in them… but you grew up watching this and you dreamed of this one day, and now you get to be a part of it and see how it actually impacts the world. That's why I'm so excited.”
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