Giants Exercise Fifth-Year Option on Kayvon Thibodeaux

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) — The New York Giants confirmed on Thursday night that they are exercising the fifth-year option for linebacker Kayvon Thibodeaux. General Manager Joe Schoen made the announcement following the team’s decision to draft another premier edge rusher, Abdul Carter, with the third overall pick.

The deadline for NFL teams to exercise fifth-year options for players from the 2022 first-round draft class is May 1. Under the Collective Bargaining Agreement, each first-round pick has a team option for a fifth year, extending their rookie contract at a non-negotiable fixed salary. This ensures that Thibodeaux’s contract will extend through the 2026 season, where he is expected to earn $14.75 million.

Thibodeaux, selected fifth overall by the Giants in 2022, has started all 43 games throughout his first three seasons. His impressive stats include 21 sacks, 46 quarterback hits, and six forced fumbles. He is the first Giants defender to record at least 21 sacks in his first three seasons since Jason Pierre-Paul between 2010 and 2012.

With 11.5 sacks in the 2023 season, Thibodeaux’s performance places him in the top tier of the franchise’s pass rushers. Currently, he ranks 19th on the franchise’s all-time sack list.

Thibodeaux’s breakout moment came during his rookie year when he secured his first career sack against Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson. His foundational career, coupled with his advocacy work through The Jream Foundation, highlights his dual commitment to sports and community.

The Giants are looking to build a strong defensive lineup with Thibodeaux, Carter, and fellow linebacker Brian Burns. The combination aims to provide a formidable pass rush that could become a key asset for the team moving forward. If the Giants can also find a stable solution at quarterback, they may position themselves as contenders once again.