Following back-to-back losses over the past two weeks, the New York Giants find themselves with a dismal 2-6 record, rendering any postseason aspirations a distant fantasy for Big Blue.
This underwhelming performance has dramatically altered the franchise’s strategy ahead of the NFL’s November 4 trade deadline. Just a few weeks ago, the Giants appeared primed to act as buyers following the season-ending injury to star wide receiver Malik Nabers. However, with another lost season on the horizon, rival teams have begun reaching out to the Giants’ front office to gauge interest in trading edge rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux.
But NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo reports that the Giants remain steadfast in their reluctance to move the former first-round pick at this juncture.
The speculation intensified after the Giants selected Abdul Carter in the 2025 NFL draft, bolstering an already formidable defensive line and prompting questions about whether New York might shop Thibodeaux before the deadline. Yet, the organization has shown no appetite for undermining its deepest and most potent unit on the roster.
Thibodeaux made headlines in the Giants’ most recent matchup, stripping the ball from Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts during a controversial “Tush Push” play last Sunday. What should have been ruled a clear forced fumble and recovery instead saw the ball remain with the Eagles, sparking widespread outrage among fans and analysts alike. Thibodeaux’s effort could position him as the catalyst to finally retire the polarizing play from the NFL lexicon.
While Thibodeaux has yet to fully live up to his draft pedigree through his early career, he appears to be hitting his stride this season. The 24-year-old has excelled as both a run defender and pass rusher, complementing a star-studded front that includes Brian Burns, Dexter Lawrence, and rookie Abdul Carter. This defensive line, arguably the Giants’ greatest strength, may still have untapped potential as the unit gels further.
As the Giants potentially turn the corner with the emergence of franchise quarterback Jake Dart — secured on a cost-effective rookie deal — the idea of parting with a foundational asset like Thibodeaux defies logic. With ample salary cap flexibility for the foreseeable future, New York is better served building around its young core rather than dismantling it.
