The New York Giants spent a ton of resources on building an elite defensive line. All-Pro defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence is dominant, former Pro Bowl edge rusher Brian Burns was given a huge extension, and Joe Schoen's first-ever draft pick was used on former Oregon star Kayvon Thibodeaux.
Edge rusher seems like a position the Giants won't address early in the 2025 NFL Draft. However, amid rumors that the Cleveland Browns are zeroing in on Colorado two-way star Travis Hunter at No. 2 overall, Penn State pass rush dynamo Abdul Carter could end up being picked by New York at No. 3 overall.
While Thibodeaux has produced to some degree (21 sacks in three seasons) with the Giants, Schoen could get some solid Day 2 capital for him if they draft Carter and put the ex-No. 5 pick on the trade block. These five teams will likely have some interest in a player of his caliber.
5 teams who could trade for Giants pass rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux
5. Carolina Panthers
The Panthers are still very much in talent acquisition mode as they try to revamp one of the worst defensive rosters in football. Thibodeaux and Jadeveon Clowney would be a solid pass rush duo on the outside, with both of them being able to play the run and explode from wider positions.
4. Seattle Seahawks
Between Leonard Williams and Julian Love, Seattle may be rebuilding the 2022 Giants defense if they trade for Thibodeaux. While they have holes on the offensive line and at wide receiver, the Seahawks need one more pass rusher. Thibodeaux may end up returning to the Pacific Northwest.
3. Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens finally saw Odafe Oweh break out, and Kyle Van Noy is still a productive player. Even with those two factors working in their favor, they need one more dynamic playmaker up front. John Harbaugh developing Thibodeaux could be a scary sight for the rest of the AFC.
2. Detroit Lions
If the Lions choose to pick up a defensive tackle or starting guard with their first-round pick, they might be better off flipping one of their Day 2 picks over to New York and grabbing Thibodeaux. Teaming up with fellow 2022 draftee Aidan Hutchinson, the Lions could have their starting defensive ends locked in for the long-term.
1. San Francisco 49ers
Thibodeaux is Los Angeles born-and-bred, so this mini-homecoming that sends him back to California could be ideal for him both personally and professionally. Thibodeaux would be guaranteed a starting role opposite Nick Bosa, and the 49ers could add a star edge rusher while still focusing their early 2025 picks on the offensive line and secondary.