Despite the New York Giants' public commitment to Kayvon Thibodeaux, trade rumors continue to surround the talented pass-rusher.
Much of the chatter emanates from the Giants' current status as a non-contending team and a looming contract extension for the 2022 first-round pick. Some analysts argue that it may be more strategic for New York to acquire assets before Thibodeaux reaches free agency.
ESPN's Aaron Schultz recently released his final offseason moves for all 32 teams, indicating that the Giants should move on from Thibodeaux.
"The Giants now have three starting edge rushers for two spots after drafting Abdul Carter to go along with Thibodeaux and Brian Burns. Thibodeaux has two years left on his rookie contract, and he'll need an extension after the 2025 season. The team won't want to pay him at the going price for starting edge rushers if he's not going to be starting.
Yes, New York can use an edge rusher rotation and get plenty of value out of him. It can create a NASCAR-style package where one of its edge rushers moves inside on third down. But the Giants can also trade Thibodeaux to a contender that needs help on the edge, such as the Packers or the Lions, and probably get a Day 2 pick in return. More draft capital would be a huge help for 2026 when they'll be trying to find as many strong offensive players as possible to build around quarterback Jaxson Dart and wide receiver Malik Nabers."
Following a disappointing 3-14 campaign, both General Manager Joe Schoen and Head Coach Brian Daboll are under pressure to deliver immediate results - the organization appears unwilling to embrace a full-scale rebuild. In that context, parting ways with one of their few proven defensive playmakers would be counterproductive.
The Giants picked up Thibodeaux's fifth-year option in April, keeping him under contract through 2026. Schoen told the media that although the team selected Abdul Carter with the No. 3 overall pick, Thibodeaux is a factor in their long-term plans.
"Kayvon is going to be here. We're excited to have him. You can't have enough pass rushers," Schoen said. "Between those guys coming off the edge, Dex (Dexter Lawrence) in the middle, Nacho (Rakeem Nunez-Roches), Roy Robertson-Harris, I'm excited about the D-line. We added (Jeremiah) Ledbetter, Chauncey Golston. So we're turning the corner where there's some depth at some of these positions, and that will really help us. I'm excited about the group. We're phase 1, so Shane (Bowen) and his staff and Dabs (Brian Daboll) will get together and figure out the creativity of how they're going to utilize the personnel."
Kayvon Thibodeaux has been a consistent presence on the field for the Giants, starting in 43 games and compiling 21 sacks, 26 tackles for loss, 46 quarterback hits, 11 passes defended, six forced fumbles, and three fumble recoveries.
Thibodeaux is the first Giants defender since Jason Pierre-Paul (2010–2012) to record at least 21 sacks within his first three years in the league.
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