The New York Giants are heading into a pivotal offseason, and one of the biggest decisions looming involves former first-round pick Kayvon Thibodeaux. Drafted fifth overall in 2022, Thibodeaux came into the league with sky-high expectations as a game-changing edge rusher. And while there have been flashes of his potential, the consistency and dominance the Giants hoped for haven’t quite materialized.
Now, with Thibodeaux entering the final year of his rookie deal, New York has a choice to make: ride it out and hope for a breakout, or explore a trade while his value still holds some weight. One potential landing spot? The Detroit Lions.
There’s a case to be made here - and a strong one. The Giants have already invested heavily in their pass rush, bringing in Brian Burns and developing Abdul Carter into a legitimate starter.
That’s two high-end edge defenders already in place, which naturally crowds the rotation and limits Thibodeaux’s role. For a player who thrives on rhythm and reps, that’s not an ideal situation.
Enter Detroit. The Lions are coming off a season where their defense took a big step forward, but there’s still room to grow - especially up front.
With Al-Quadin Muhammad headed for free agency, there’s a potential opening opposite Aidan Hutchinson. Pairing Hutchinson with Thibodeaux could give Detroit one of the most explosive young pass-rushing duos in the league.
Yes, there’s some risk. Thibodeaux has battled injuries over the last two seasons, which has slowed his development.
But when healthy, the production has been there. Back in 2023 - his last fully healthy campaign - he racked up 11.5 sacks and 43 quarterback pressures.
That kind of output doesn’t just happen by accident. It’s a sign of a player who can impact games when he’s on the field and in the right system.
From Detroit’s perspective, the move makes sense financially and strategically. Thibodeaux is still on his rookie contract, playing under the fifth-year option in 2026 - a manageable $14 million hit for a potential difference-maker.
If he clicks in Detroit, the Lions would be in the driver’s seat for a contract extension before he hits the open market in 2027. And if he doesn’t pan out?
It’s a one-year gamble that likely wouldn’t cost more than a second-round pick.
For the Giants, trading Thibodeaux could be a classic case of addition by subtraction. They’d be clearing the way for Burns and Carter to lead the charge off the edge, while picking up draft capital to address other needs. And for Thibodeaux, a fresh start in a system that can maximize his athleticism and motor might be exactly what he needs to reignite his career.
If this deal comes to pass, it’s a win-win scenario. The Giants get value for a player who no longer fits their scheme.
The Lions take a calculated swing on a high-upside talent. And Thibodeaux?
He gets a shot at redemption - and possibly a big payday - in a city that’s building something special on defense.