New York Giants fans might want to start coming to terms with the idea that Kayvon Thibodeaux won’t be here in 2026. When there’s smoke, there’s usually fire, and after what came out of the NFL Combine, this thing is already up in flames.
According to SNY's Connor Hughes, "They [Giants] are actively exploring trade options. Harbaugh, Aponte and Schoen must determine the appropriate value."
What does “appropriate value” even mean? That's still anyone's guess, but Hughes made it clear that the return is going to be underwhelming: "Most league sources SNY contacted found it difficult to envision a team parting with more than a fourth-round pick for Thibodeaux."
Related: Giants insider reveals Joe Schoen’s asking price for Kayvon Thibodeaux
For years, general manager Joe Schoen has held on to draft picks a little too long -- think Deonte Banks, Jalin Hyatt. Call it ego, mismanagement, or both, but it hasn’t translated to wins. Thibodeaux has been toeing that same line the past two seasons, and it’s becoming more obvious by the day that parting ways with the 2022 fifth overall pick might be the best move for both sides. But not for pennies on the dollar.
Kayvon Thibodeaux market forming as Giants weigh next move
There has to be some hesitation to actually pull the trigger if you’re Schoen. Thibs was his first-ever draft pick as Giants GM. It’s giving firstborn son vibes. Say what you will about business versus personal feelings, that’s a tough spot to be in. But nostalgia won’t get this team over the hump, and if there’s even a modest market for his services, that underwhelming Day 3 price could start to climb.
And there won’t be a shortage of teams interested in the 25-year-old. The Patriots, 49ers, Bills, Bears, Ravens, and Lions are just a few that could at least explore what it would take to get a deal done. If the market heats up, basic supply and demand could push the compensation into Day 2 territory.
Economics plays a role, but the former Oregon standout is also still viewed favorably around the league. One AFC scout called Thibodeaux “a freak athlete,” according to Between the Hashmark’s Matt Lombardo.
I would expect the compensation to creep into the third round. After all, Big Blue doesn’t have to trade him. He still has another year left on his deal, so if the return isn’t right, Schoen and Co. can wait until next season’s trade deadline and see if the market shifts.
Regardless, this feels like the beginning of the end in East Rutherford. If this is how it’s going to play out, the goal can’t be dumping him just to move on. The goal has to be maximizing the return. If Thibodeaux is as good as gone, Schoen’s job is to make sure he milks every ounce of value possible before the door closes.