Local and national media figures alike have been suggesting that the New York Giants could trade fourth year edge defender Kayvon Thibodeaux for months now.
Really, Thibodeaux has been treated as a third
wheel since the team turned in their draft slip to select Abdul Carter with the third overall pick in 2026 NFL Draft. The fact that the Giants haven’t seemed to show any inclination toward trading Thibodeaux hasn’t done much to slow down the rumors and speculation.
Jordan Schultz reported as recently Tuesday morning that some around the NFL believe that Thibodeaux could become available as the trade deadline approaches.
Thibodeaux has had a very strong year for the Giants and has matured into a well-rounded defender who’s a factor against the run and pass. It makes sense that there’s interest in Thibodeaux as contenders look to gear up for their stretch runs — not to mention the ever-present hunger for pass rushers.
That interest could make Thibodeaux a potential trade chip if the Giants want to add draft capital or work multiple trades to add talent to a depleted offensive roster.
However, Schultz’s report was almost immediately countered by a report from NFL Network insider (and former Giants’ beat writer) Mike Garafolo.
This is the flip side of the coin.
The trio of Brian Burns, Thibodeaux, and Carter is the nucleus of a pass rush for which every team in the NFL has to plan. The fact that the Burns and Thibodeaux have become as well-rounded as they have allows the team to use Carter in a wide variety of ways.
It doesn’t make sense at the moment to move Thibodeaux and potentially put one of the team’s greatest strengths into a similar situation as their receiving corps was at the start of the season. Having talented depth at a premium position is a good thing for a team that’s trying to build itself into a contender.
Of course, “no interest” could turn into “real interest” if another team comes forward with an offer the Giants’ can’t refuse.
