New York Giants Draft: Kayvon Thibodeaux is best case scenario
By Reese Nasser
Fit on defense
The New York Giants recently hired former Baltimore Ravens defensive coordinator Don Martindale to become their new DC. Looking at how Martindale ran his defense while in Baltimore, there is no reason to believe that Thibodeaux wouldn’t excel in this scheme.
Martindale has spent years mastering a defense that is built off of blitz and pressure.
Due to this, many defenders are often put in one-on-one battles against whoever they are lined up against. Elite rushers are able to excel in this sort of defense.
Looking at how Martindale has utilized rookies in the past is also a good sign of how this could be a good fit. Just this past season, Ravens first-round pick Odafe Oweh played a big role in the success of their defense. He was used heavily in all areas of the defense and finished his first year with 5 sacks, 49 pressures, and 30 tackles.
Thibodeaux could be utilized in a similar way to how Oweh was during his rookie year. He is talented enough to drop back into coverage, which is something that Martindale expects from his edge rushers. During his time at Oregon, Thibodeaux defended seven passes and was able to keep up with opposing receivers.