The New York Giants are entering a new era, and with John Harbaugh now at the helm, change is more than expected - it’s inevitable. Harbaugh brings a clear vision and a culture-first approach, and that usually means some roster reshuffling is on the horizon.
One name that could find itself at the center of that shake-up? Kayvon Thibodeaux.
Thibodeaux, the Giants’ first-round pick back in 2022, came into the league with sky-high expectations after a standout career at Oregon. And while the talent is still there, availability has been a concern - he’s played just 22 games over the past two seasons.
That said, he just turned 25 in December, and edge rushers with his upside don’t sit on the market for long. If the Giants decide to move on, there will be no shortage of teams lining up to see if they can unlock the potential that made him a top-five pick.
Let’s take a look at three teams that could make a strong push for Thibodeaux if the Giants put him on the trade block.
1. Detroit Lions: A Perfect Partner for Hutchinson?
The Lions have been building something special under Dan Campbell, and while their offense has taken big strides, the defense still needs a bit more juice - especially off the edge. Aidan Hutchinson has emerged as a cornerstone piece, but Detroit hasn’t yet found that second pass rusher to truly complement him. Enter Thibodeaux.
The idea of pairing Hutchinson and Thibodeaux, two of the top defensive prospects from the 2022 draft, is more than just a fun storyline - it’s a legitimate opportunity to supercharge Detroit’s pass rush. Thibodeaux wouldn’t have to carry the load alone, and that could be exactly what he needs to stay healthy and productive. At just 25, he still fits the Lions’ timeline, and with a relatively modest salary, the financial risk is low for a team with playoff aspirations.
General manager Brad Holmes has shown he’s not afraid to make bold moves. If he wants to take this defense to the next level, Thibodeaux could be the swing worth taking.
2. Cincinnati Bengals: A Gamble Worth Making
The Bengals’ defense took a step back last season, and with Trey Hendrickson set to hit free agency, there’s a gaping hole in the pass rush. Cincinnati holds the 10th overall pick in the upcoming draft, and while that could be used on a young edge rusher, there’s something to be said for bringing in a player who’s already logged snaps in the NFL - even if his trajectory has been uneven.
Thibodeaux would be a classic Bengals move: a high-upside player who might just need a change of scenery to get back on track. Cincinnati has done this before - betting on talent and trusting their locker room and coaching staff to bring out the best in a player.
And with Joe Burrow in his prime, the Bengals don’t have time to wait for a rookie to develop. They need impact now.
If the price is right, Thibodeaux gives them both a short-term solution and long-term upside. It’s the kind of calculated risk that could pay off in a big way.
3. Tennessee Titans: Cap Space, Coaching, and a Clear Need
The Titans are entering the 2026 offseason with a rare combination of assets: a franchise quarterback in Cam Ward, nearly $100 million in cap space, and a coaching staff that’s ready to make a leap. New offensive coordinator Brian Daboll knows Thibodeaux from his time in New York, and head coach Robert Saleh has a reputation for getting the most out of his defensive players - especially pass rushers.
Financially, this move would be a drop in the bucket for Tennessee. Thibodeaux’s $14.75 million salary is more than manageable, especially for a team that’s looking to accelerate its rebuild. The Titans have the resources to take a swing on a player like Thibodeaux without mortgaging their future.
If he stays healthy, he could be a foundational piece on the edge for a defense that’s looking to re-establish its identity. And if he doesn’t? The risk is minimal, especially given Tennessee’s cap flexibility.
The Bottom Line
Kayvon Thibodeaux’s time in New York may not have gone exactly as planned, but the story is far from over. He’s still young, still talented, and still capable of making a major impact in the right situation. Whether it’s in Detroit, Cincinnati, or Tennessee, there are teams out there that can offer him a fresh start - and potentially reap the rewards of a high-ceiling pass rusher who just needs the right fit.
If the Giants decide to move on, don’t be surprised if Thibodeaux becomes one of the most intriguing names on the trade market this offseason.