As the 2025 NFL Draft draws near, the New York Giants find themselves in a familiar yet critical position. Holding the third overall pick, they face a significant decision: target Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders or reinforce their defensive identity by selecting Penn State pass rusher Abdul Carter—assuming Travis Hunter is off the board.
Bringing in Carter could create one of the NFL’s most dynamic young edge duos, but it would also raise serious questions about Kayvon Thibodeaux’s future. The former No. 5 pick from 2022 is heading into a pivotal year, and his role could be impacted by such a move.
Evaluating Thibodeaux’s Role
Now 24, Thibodeaux has yet to meet the expectations that come with a top-five draft slot. In 2024, he saw a dip in usage with just 593 snaps, producing 38 pressures and six sacks. More troubling was his missed tackle rate, which spiked to 27.6%—a concerning figure for a front-line defender.
Still, flashes of high-level talent remain. Thibodeaux continues to show explosive burst off the line and the ability to disrupt plays. His inconsistency could be partly attributed to the scheme shift that followed Wink Martindale’s departure as defensive coordinator.
Shane Bowen, Martindale’s successor, didn’t spark an immediate turnaround, but a second season under his guidance could provide the structure Thibodeaux needs to regain form.
A Critical Contract Decision Ahead
The Giants’ 2022 draft produced two top-10 picks—Thibodeaux and offensive tackle Evan Neal—neither of whom has lived up to early expectations. While Neal’s fifth-year option is widely expected to be declined, doing the same with Thibodeaux would be a harsh indictment of the team’s draft strategy.
Thibodeaux’s situation is more nuanced. Financially, retaining him makes sense; his projected fifth-year salary is $14.75 million—considerably less than what top-tier pass rushers command. Although he didn’t reach the Pro Bowl criteria to increase that number, his playing time qualified him for the second-tier salary bracket, offering good value for a player with considerable upside.
Drafting Carter Would Make a Statement
Selecting Carter wouldn’t necessarily signal the end for Thibodeaux in New York, but it would undoubtedly raise the stakes. It would also give the Giants more options in their defensive schemes, allowing for creative rotations featuring Carter, Thibodeaux, and new addition Brian Burns.
In today’s NFL, edge depth is a premium, but this draft decision carries weight beyond on-field performance. For GM Joe Schoen and the Giants, it’s a balancing act—one that could shape both the defense and the locker room message moving forward.
One way or another, Thibodeaux’s tenure with the Giants is reaching a critical turning point.
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