Pro Football Rumors
With the first three years of his career in the books, Kayvon Thibodeaux is eligible for an extension. While the Giants contemplate picking up his fifth-year option, the former No. 5 pick is not anticipating talks on a long-term deal to take place this offseason.
“Of course,” Thibodeaux said when speaking about the assumption no negotiations will occur in 2025 and the reason why (via Paul Schwartz of the New York Post). The 24-year-old had a strong showing in 2023, racking up 11.5 sacks and 12 tackles for loss. This past campaign did not yield a similar showing, however, with Thibodeaux’s sack total dropping to 5.5 in 12 games.
Given the inconsistent nature of his play so far, it would come as no surprise if the Giants were to remain hesitant on the extension front in Thibodeaux’s case. The team is expected to exercise his option for 2026, which would check in at a cost of $16.06MM; a decision in that regard will need to be made by May 1. Of course, making any kind of commitment to the Oregon product would result in an expensive edge rush tandem alongside 2024 trade acquisition Brian Burns for New York.
“Super-excited man, love the Giants,” Thibodeaux added when speaking about his future. “Obviously, I hope I can continue to be here. The future’s in their hands, obviously, but I’m super-excited. I think I’ve put decent film out. I won’t say it’s my best, I won’t say it’s my worst. But I know the ceiling is a lot higher.”
Burns posted 8.5 sacks along with 34 pressures (the second-highest total of his career) during his debut Giants campaign, and he is under contract through 2028. Azeez Ojulari has handled a notable workload at times while playing out his rookie contract, but he is on track to depart in free agency leaving the Burns-Thibodeaux tandem to remain a key element of the Giants’ defense. That partnership will be intact for one more year at a minimum, and picking up Thibodeaux’s option could allow the team to wait even longer on an extension decision. It will be interesting to see how the Giants proceed if and when consideration for a long-term pact is given.
