3 reasons why Kayvon Thibodeaux can win Defensive Rookie of the Year

Playing on a talented NY Giants defensive line

Regardless of how the unit looked at times last season, the Giants defensive front is still full of talent. Between last year’s standout rookie Azeez Ojulari and the veteran pass-rusher in Leonard Williams, the group has legitimate talent.

Williams is just one year removed from a career-high in sacks when he recorded 11.5 in 2020. Ojulari was one of the most surprising rookies in the NFL last season as he racked up eight total sacks. The duo combined for 130 total tackles, 14.5 sacks and 13 tackles for loss. They also accounted for 27 quarterback hits. And now Thibodeaux will be added to this unit.

Playing alongside two players of this caliber, while also being able to generate his own pressure, will lead to Thibodeaux falling into favorable matchups. Defenses will have to account for all three pass rushers. This should allow for each player to make an impact early and often. The pressure will also be slightly alleviated as if one struggles, the other two can carry the weight.

If Thibodeaux can generate enough favorable matchups, his statistics at the end of the season could have him at the top of the defensive class. Other rookie edge rushers such as Detroit Lions’ Aidan Hutchinson or Jacksonville’s Travon Walker aren’t going to be with groups that already boast talented rushers. Much of their success will be fully reliant on what they can do by themselves. This could also help Thibodeaux separate himself from the pack.