Andre Patterson Defends Dexter Lawrence Amid Criticism
Andre Patterson holds Carl Banks’ perspective in high regard, yet he strongly disagrees with it.
The Giants’ defensive line coach came to Dexter Lawrence’s defense on Friday after Banks suggested that “nobody respects” Lawrence. Despite Lawrence’s impressive nine sacks in 12 games last season, which secured him a Pro Bowl spot for the third consecutive year, he’s only managed half a sack in his first eight games this season.
“Sure, people look at the numbers and see he’s not performing as well as last year, and that’s accurate,” Patterson commented. “But that doesn’t mean he’s not playing at a high level. I think some may not realize that. I watch the film repeatedly. If he were struggling, I’d be the first to admit it, but that’s not the case.”
Banks, now a color commentator for the Giants, is enshrined in the Giants’ Ring of Honor. This made his critical remarks on the podcast “Breeve in Giants” unexpected, especially given Lawrence’s sharp retort, labeling Banks as “delusional.”
A lot relates to the attention Lawrence garners from opposing offensive lines. While Banks claims to have watched less film recently, his analysis reveals that Lawrence has been double-teamed more than any other player in the league for the second straight season—59.6% of the time, in fact, including 29 out of 40 snaps against the Eagles’ backup center last week.
“He’s often his own worst enemy,” Patterson said. “What he achieved last year was incredible. Is he still pushing for those goals? Absolutely, but it’s difficult given his position on the field. He doesn’t have a technique that consistently gives him one-on-one opportunities. He’s stuck right in the middle. Still, he’s made a name for himself, and that presents its own challenges.”
Since Patterson joined in 2022, he transitioned Lawrence into the nose tackle position, marking the start of his rise as one of the league’s top pass-rushing nose tackles.
However, the Giants have continually placed near the bottom in rushing defense during head coach Brian Daboll’s tenure, with Patterson leading the defensive line. A change from coordinator Wink Martindale to Shane Bowen didn’t alter the results.
“Film doesn’t lie,” Patterson stated. “I think it’s key to be honest with our players. I’m not going to coddle them. If someone isn’t performing, I’ll address it, no matter who they are.”
The Eagles outran the Giants with a staggering 276 yards.
“It’s fine that Banks has his own viewpoints—that’s his perspective,” Patterson remarked. “I have immense respect for his career as a Giant. But when it comes to the defensive line, I’m among just 32 guys doing this in the NFL. How we communicate is what matters most. Other opinions don’t hold weight.”
