New York Giants defensive end Kayvon Thibodeaux is one of many NFL players who could benefit from a fresh start elsewhere in the league.
Originally the No. 5 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, Thibodeaux's professional football career has been inconsistent thus far. He was an elite player on the defensive side of the football in 2023, logging career highs in sacks (11.5), tackles (50) and forced fumbles (three). But that season has accounted for more than half of his career sacks in the league (21), and he spent over one month on injured reserve last year.
Combining that with the fact that the Giants have invested heavily on their defensive line this past offseason, it may be difficult for Thibodeaux to be an impact player in the Big Apple, according to Bleacher Report's Kristopher Knox.
"If Thibodeaux is going to reach double-digit sacks for the second time in his career, he may have to find a new team. The Giants traded for Brian Burns last offseason and just used the third overall pick on pass-rusher Abdul Carter," Knox wrote. "New York did pick up the fifth-year option on the 24-year-old's contract, but it could erase his entire $14.8 million 2026 cap hit by trading him. That could become an attractive option if it becomes obvious that he will be third at best in the pass-rushing rotation."
New York Giants linebacker Kayvon Thibodeaux (5) speaks at a press conference during minicamp at Quest Diagnostics Training Center.
New York Giants linebacker Kayvon Thibodeaux (5) speaks at a press conference during minicamp at Quest Diagnostics Training Center.
John Jones-Imagn Images
The New England Patriots, like the Giants, have also dedicated much of their offseason efforts to bolstering their defense. Knox believes it would not hurt to add another talented pass rusher to their ranks.
"The Patriots, who recorded just 28 sacks in 2024, should have interest in adding Thibodeaux if he's available," Knox wrote. "New England did add Harold Landry III and Milton Williams in free agency but could still use another sack artist on its defensive front."
No matter what team he ends up playing for in 2025, Thibodeaux remains confident in his abilities to be an elite NFL player in the years to come.
"I think I'm a consistent double-digit sack guy and I've got to do that," Thibodeaux said during minicamp, via Dennis Waszak Jr. via Dennis Waszak Jr. of the Associated Press.