The New York Giants will likely trade former first-rounder Kayvon Thibodeaux this offseason, as he’s their best asset. According to the report, the Giants are in a strange place after going 3-14 last season, The team could be rebuilding a new team, which means they’re nowhere near playoff contention. However, after signing veteran quarterback Russell Wilson, it seems like the team is trying to go back to their first postseason in years, but he’s on a one-year deal, so they may just be testing the waters. With all of the mess they’re dealing with, typically, an NFL team would trade their best asset, like Thibodeaux, to a roster that is already a contender.
Originally selected in the 2022 NFL Draft, the former Oregon product had a few slow first seasons, but he did show signs of life last year. After recording a 72.0 PFF pass-rushing grade, the pass rusher could still be on the trade block if the Giants decide to select Penn State Abdul Carter with the third overall pick of this year’s draft. Thibodeaux did have a breakout season last year of recording 11.5 sacks in one single year, but he could follow that up in 2024. If the Giants do decide to take the route of getting the best pass rusher in this year’s draft, here are five teams that could trade for him.
Breaking: Former Giants First Round Pick Kayvon Thibodeaux on Trade Block – 5 Possible Fits
Potential Destinations
Carolina Panthers
The Carolina Panthers are finally putting some work into improving their defense after showing signs of life on offense under quarterback Bryce Young. Jadeveon Clowney was the best edge rusher for the Panthers, while Josey Jewell was looking more like a journeyman for this pass rush. There have been rumors that the Panthers could trade Clowney, but it didn’t happen. After signing Tershawn Wharton to improve its defensive trenches, there’s a chance Clowney could be dealt in a trade, and if that’s the case, Thibodeaux may be a viable replacement.
New Orleans Saints
The Saints had one of the worst defenses last season, but they’re bringing back Chase Young and are adding Justin Reid to improve their secondary unit. However, after losing Willie Gay, the team needs another linebacker. Thibodeaux might be rusty, but it might be worth a shot to take a chance on him since he’s on the younger side.
Kansas City Chiefs
Nick Bolton continues to be the leader of this linebacker unit despite trading for Josh Uche to provide some relief. However, it didn’t work out that way since he’s been on the quieter side of making anything happen. Uche is gone, so this means they could look for an upgrade over Leo Chenal and Drue Tranquill. Thibodeaux has not only the size but the potential speed to be a rotational piece that could carve out a role in this defense.
Los Angeles Chargers
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Chargers need some type of life for Khalil Mack’s possible final year in the league as he’s returning on a one-year deal. Daiyan Henley and Denzel Perryman are not getting this team back in the postseason, so maybe they do not have a choice but to trade for an edge rusher to start over. Thibodeaux may be their last resort and might be a homegrown talent in Jim Harbaugh’s trenches.
Baltimore Ravens
If anyone in this league needs a new linebacker, it’s the Baltimore Ravens. They didn’t have the same pass rush as in 2023 when Jadeveon Clowney was still a part of this team. They didn’t have the financial liberty to keep him, so they had to depend on Trenton Simpson, and it wasn’t perfect for Kyle Van Noy and Roquan Smith. Thibodeaux has his moments of inconsistency, but with the right mindset and one of the best defenses in the league, he could improve his production.
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