New York Giants Defensive End is Drawing Interest On the Trade Market

The New York Giants have one of the best defensive lines in the entire NFL. With the Trade Deadline looming, more contending teams are making calls to try to get them over the edge and compete for the Lombardi Trophy. Could the Giants make a blockbuster trade and deal their former top pick?

Why The Giants Could Deal Thibodeaux

The New York Giants drafted Kayvon Thibodeaux in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft, and the former fifth overall pick could be on the move. Jordan Schultz reported earlier today that Thibodeaux is a name to watch on the trade market. He is under contract for the remainder of the season and next season, if New York decides to pick up the club option. 

The question remains whether or not he is a part of New York’s long-term plans. He hasn’t lived up to the expectations he had when he was drafted. Thibodeaux has had only one season of double-digit sacks, which was in 2023, and has not had another season with over 6 sacks.

Already having Brian Burns and Abdul Carter under contract until 2029, New York could look to try to capitalize on the value that Thibodeaux currently holds. A change of scenery could do great things for him, especially with how much he has struggled at times with the Giants. If they do trade him, they could acquire more resources that they can allocate to offense to build around Jaxson Dart.

What Is a Realistic Return?

Thibodeaux’s value is hard to determine because of his lack of production. What is important is that at the end of the day, he is still just 24 years old with a ton of unlocked potential. Another factor that plays into this is that he will be owed a new contract at the end of next season, and his annual value will be hard to determine. 

Teams around the league view the edge rusher position as prime real estate. Any contending teams in need of a pass rusher would probably pay an early Day 2 pick for Thibodeaux, but I would keep him if I were the Giants.

Trading him this season wouldn’t be smart, as his value would be at an all-time high. They can wait until next season to see if he’s finally able to take his game to the next level. If not, they can give the reins to their 3rd overall pick this year, Abdul Carter.