They used a top-five pick to take him off the board in the 2022 NFL draft, but the New York Giants are getting closer to moving on from Kayvon Thibodeaux, based on a major update about his trade status, and that of All-Pro nose tackle Dexter Lawrence II, from the Scouting Combine.
A report from SNY.tv’s Connor Hughes in Indianapolis on Thursday, February 26 revealed key updates about both Thibodeaux and the linchpin of Big Blue’s front seven.
Hughes reported, “Kayvon might be the one that is a little bit more expendable. At least somebody that the Giants are willing to listen to offers on. From teams that I’ve talked to around the NFL Combine, believe he is available for the right price. He’s someone who needs to be paid shortly, he’s somebody who probably doesn’t factor into the Giants’ long-term plans. So if John Harbaugh and Joe Schoen can get something for Thibodeaux, that can both help the Giants this year and moving forward, it certainly sounds like from the discussions I’ve had, that’s something they’re going to consider.”
While it’s hardly surprising Thibodeaux is being kept on the block, Hughes offered significant insight into Lawrence’s future. As Hughes put it, “I do not get the same sentiment on Dexter Lawrence. This staff loves him & wants him.”
I do not get the same sentiment on Dexter Lawrence. This staff loves him & wants him.
Lawrence is being given another chance to get back to his dominant best under a new staff after a trying season, but no such patience exists for Thibodeaux, who has flattered to deceive since entering the pros.
Kayvon Thibodeaux Hasn’t Delivered
The Giants have so far been proceeding as if Thibodeaux will remain on the team. At least based on recent comments from general manager Joe Schoen, but it’s a tough sell when Thibodeaux hasn’t produced like a fifth-overall pick.
He’s had just one season with double-digit sacks, when Thibodeaux posted 11.5 quarterback takedowns in 2023. There’s been a major regression since, with a shoulder injury only part of the problem.
Thibodeaux simply hasn’t been a consistent source of pressure on the pocket. The 25-year-old has also failed to establish himself as an edge-setting force against the run.
His struggles making the grade have occurred alongside fellow edge-rusher Brian Burns becoming a prolific sack artist in a Giants uniform. Burns has logged 25 sacks in two seasons with the Giants, emerging as somebody offenses need to account for on every play.
The same status isn’t shared by Abdul Carter just yet, but the third player taken in last year’s draft still has room to grow professionally. It doesn’t make sense to give up on Carter so soon, especially when his maturation will accelerate if Lawrence returns to form.
Giants Still Need Dexter Lawrence
Getting Lawrence back up to speed can have a transformative impact on the Giants’ defense. Much more than the light finally going on for Thibodeaux.
For that to happen, Lawrence needs to be healthy and motivated. The desire of new head coach John Harbaugh to keep big No. 97 around will help.
Retaining Lawrence is a financial gamble, given the complex nature of his contract, but the Giants would be taking a greater risk by removing the focal point of their defensive line.
It’s a risk the Giants are wise to avoid because of a key member of Harbaugh’s new staff. Defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson is taking the headset at MetLife Stadium after two seasons calling plays for the Tennessee Titans, experience that should benefit Lawrence.
Wilson helped All-Pro defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons post a career-high 76 tackles in 2024 and a career-best 11 sacks in ’25. Having a similar impact on Lawrence will make this Giants’ defensive front formidable, even without Thibodeaux.
Giants Get Major Kayvon Thibodeaux, Dexter Lawrence Trade Update at Combine