The New York Giants are facing a major decision regarding the future of edge rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux this offseason.

Selected No. 5 overall in the 2022 NFL Draft, Thibodeaux has flashed potential but has yet to develop into the elite pass rusher the Giants envisioned. While he remains a talented defender, injuries and inconsistent production have limited his impact.

With Thibodeaux set to reach free agency next offseason, A to Z Sports reporter Mike Payton believes the Giants could explore trading the former Oregon standout to the Detroit Lions.

Why Kayvon Thibodeaux Fits the Detroit Lions

Payton explained why Detroit would be an ideal landing spot:

“If I were Brad Holmes, I would 100% make a deal to get Thibodeaux to Detroit for multiple reasons. The first is that the Giants are probably open to moving him since they already have Brian Burns and Abdul Carter. The other big reason is that you get a year of contractual control over Thibodeaux. He’s playing on his fifth-year option worth about $14 million.”

Payton also suggested Detroit could acquire Thibodeaux for a reasonable price:

“If he works out, then you’re in control of the extension, and it shouldn’t be market-breaking unless he has an insane 2026 season. You can likely get the deal done for a 2026 second-round pick.”

Giants Have Depth at Edge Rusher

Trading Thibodeaux makes sense for New York, as the team already has two high-end edge rushers in Brian Burns and Abdul Carter. With limited snaps available, Thibodeaux no longer fits into the Giants’ long-term defensive plans and could benefit from a fresh start elsewhere.

Lions Could Replace Veteran Pass Rusher

Detroit may be in the market for another edge rusher with Al-Quadin Muhammad expected to hit free agency. Thibodeaux, despite battling injuries the past two seasons, proved his ability when healthy. In 2023, he recorded:

11.5 sacks

43 quarterback pressures

Pairing Thibodeaux with Aidan Hutchinson would give the Lions one of the NFL’s youngest and most explosive pass-rushing duos, strengthening their front seven significantly.

Low Risk, High Reward for Detroit

Thibodeaux’s trade value has dropped, and he is entering the final year of his contract, making him a relatively low-risk acquisition for Detroit. If he performs well, the Lions would control extension negotiations. If not, they could walk away after one season.

A Potential Career Revival

If the Giants decide to move on from Kayvon Thibodeaux, the Lions could offer him the opportunity to revive his career in a featured role. A strong season in Detroit could also position him for a major payday in 2027.

For both teams, a Thibodeaux trade could prove to be a win-win scenario.