Dexter Lawrence Speaks Out: "I Don’t Care About Criticism – I Am Who I Am, Nobody Can Change That!"
In a powerful statement that has set the sports world buzzing, New York Giants’ defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence recently declared, “I don’t care about the criticism from anyone. I play for myself and for the team. If someone doesn’t respect me, that’s their issue, not mine. I’m still Dexter Lawrence — no one can change that.”
The 6’4", 342-pound defensive force has never been one to back down from a challenge, and this latest quote is just another example of his resilience. Despite receiving criticism from various quarters, including former players and analysts, Lawrence has remained steadfast in his commitment to the team and his personal brand of excellence.
Over the past few seasons, Lawrence has established himself as one of the NFL’s top defensive linemen, earning Pro Bowl selections and earning respect across the league. However, with the Giants’ rough patch this season, the defensive unit, including Lawrence, has faced more scrutiny than ever before. Some former players, like Carl Banks, have even questioned Lawrence’s impact on the field. However, Lawrence’s response couldn’t be clearer: he will not be defined by others' opinions.
“I’m focused on what I can control,” Lawrence said. “I play this game because I love it, because it brings me joy, and because I’m doing it for my team. Nothing else matters.” His refusal to engage in external negativity speaks to the type of leadership that Lawrence brings to the Giants’ defense — a leader who is solely focused on the game and on helping the team succeed.
As a key player on a Giants defense that has experienced ups and downs, Lawrence’s leadership will be tested in the coming weeks as the team continues to battle through adversity. However, with his unshakable confidence and unwavering dedication, it’s clear that Dexter Lawrence will keep moving forward, one play at a time, with or without the praise of critics.
His words are more than just a personal declaration; they are a statement for anyone facing external doubts or challenges. Dexter Lawrence proves that, no matter the criticism or obstacles, true greatness is defined by one’s own drive and determination.
With the Giants' season hanging in the balance, Lawrence remains a pillar of strength on the defensive line. His mindset is clear: he will not be moved or shaken by outside noise. And, as he said,
Script for McCarthy's return gets dreamier with Vikings' top two tackles back
Michigan. Tom Brady. Vikings. Lions. Who's got it better than J.J. McCarthy?
It's Week 9 of the NFL season and McCarthy will make his return to the field in Detroit for the first time since suffering a high ankle sprain in Week 2, and the script, which was already better than anything Hollywood could've dreamed up, got even better with multiple reports saying Vikings tackles Christian Darrisaw and Brian O'Neill will play.
Both Darrisaw and O'Neill were listed as questionable on Minnesota's final injury report, but their inclusion Sunday in the Motor City should make McCarthy's life under center a whole lot better.
The script really is perfect. McCarthy is playing in Michigan, where he led the Wolverines to a national championship alongside Aidan Hutchinson, who will be chasing him for the Lions, all while Michigan great Tom Brady calls the game in the FOX broadcast booth.
It's as good as it gets from the storyline perspective, and as big as it gets for a Minnesota team that has been plagued by injuries and stumbled to a 3-4 record. A win Sunday will keep them in the thick of the NFC North race, while a loss would significantly hurt their chances in the division and in the NFC wild-card race.
McCarthy played in the first two games of the season without Darrisaw, who was still going through the final stages of ACL rehab. The 22-year-old quarterback also played without wide receiver Jordan Addison in Weeks 1 and 2, as Addison was serving a three-game suspension connected to his DWI arrest in California in July 2024.
McCarthy also faced an Atlanta defense that has held every opposing quarterback to 205 passing yards or less. The Falcons held McCarthy to 158 pass yards, while also limiting Baker Mayfield (167), Bryce Young (121), Marcus Mariota (156), Josh Allen (180), Mac Jones (152), and Tua Tagovailoa (205).
All in all, McCarthy is making his return in a pivotal game — and he'll have the strongest supporting cast he's ever had in his young career as an NFL starter. The only key players he won't have around him are center Ryan Kelly, who is on injured reserve after sustaining two concussions, and No. 2 tight end Josh Oliver, who suffered a foot sprain last week against the Chargers.
The stage is set. Now it's up to McCarthy to show the world what he can do.
