[16][17] After releasing franchise career sack leader DeMarcus Ware in a salary cap move and having previously lost starters Jason Hatcher and Jay Ratliff, the Dallas Cowboys looked to improve the talent of their defensive line in the 2014 NFL draft.

[20][21] After fracturing his right foot in training camp, he started the year on the injured reserve list and did not appear in a game until Week 9 against the Arizona Cardinals.

[22] The lost time affected his play and with little impact (11 tackles with no sacks), he could not earn the starter right defensive end job ahead of Jeremy Mincey.

He redeemed himself on the ensuing drive, on 4th and 3 with a minute left and the Lions threatening to win the game from the Cowboys' 42-yard line, he sacked Stafford, causing a fumble and recovering it all in one play, sealing the victory.

He entered the season with an improved physical presence and would develop his edge rushing skills with every passing week.

[27] He made four tackles, three quarterback pressures and his first regular season sack against the New Orleans Saints.

[39] He appeared in nine games (three starts), missing the first four contests due to the league suspension and the final three with a back injury.

[40] Lawrence had a breakout season in 2017 after shifting back over to the left side, his natural position.

On September 17, 2017, in Week 2 against the Denver Broncos, Lawrence forced a fumble off quarterback Trevor Siemian.

[45] His 14.5 sacks finished tied for second in the league with the Jaguars' Calais Campbell behind the Cardinals' Chandler Jones.

[48] On March 5, 2018, the Cowboys placed the franchise tag on Lawrence, who officially signed it later that day after they were unable to come to terms on a long-term deal.

[50] On October 13, 2018, it was revealed that Lawrence was diagnosed with a torn labrum in his shoulder, in which the injury was intact for two years.

[55] On March 4, 2019, the Cowboys placed the franchise tag on Lawrence, making him the highest paid defensive end in the NFL.

[57] In week 7 against the Philadelphia Eagles, Lawrence recorded a sack forced fumble on Carson Wentz which was recovered by teammate Antwaun Woods in the 37–10 win.

[64][65] On September 16, 2021, Lawrence was placed on injured reserve after undergoing surgery for a broken fifth metatarsal in his foot.

Against the Washington Football Team in Week 16, Lawrence had a 40-yard interception return for a touchdown in the 56–14 victory.

[71] He finished the 2022 season with 65 total tackles, three passes defended, and three forced fumbles in 17 games and starts.