Giants' Dexter Lawrence Dismisses Carl Banks' Criticism as 'Delusional,' Cites Double-Team Stats

New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence publicly called franchise legend Carl Banks "delusional" after Banks criticized his recent performance, stating opponents no longer respect the two-time All-Pro. Banks, a two-time Super Bowl winner, claimed on his podcast that the "pre-injury Dexter" isn't present, noting Lawrence's struggles against backup centers and suggesting he might still be recovering from a dislocated elbow suffered last Thanksgiving, which ended his 2024 season. Lawrence, who has played all eight games this season with 20 tackles and 0.5 sacks, dismissed the criticism, asserting his elbow is not an issue. He pointed to league-high double-team rates (74.9% during pass rushes, similar to his 2024 Pro Bowl season with 44 tackles and 8 sacks in 8 games) as evidence of his disruptive impact, stating, "Check the numbers." Banks later softened his stance, telling the New York Post he still supports Lawrence and wishes the team success. Lawrence remains unfazed, focused on winning as the 2-6 Giants prepare for Week 9.