Feb. 25, 2026, 9:02 a.m. ET
New York Giants general manager Joe Schoen addressed ongoing trade speculation surrounding edge rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux during his appearance at the NFL Scouting Combine on Tuesday.
Despite persistent rumors that have followed the former No. 5 overall pick (2022 NFL draft) for much of the past two years—including this offseason—Schoen pushed back on the idea that the team is actively shopping him.
“Right now, Kayvon’s going to be with us. He played well. He’s going into his fifth year, and he’s motivated, and you can’t have enough pass rushers. You really can’t,” Schoen said. “I’m proud of the development and the maturation of Kayvon. He’s come a long way, and expect big things out of him next year with that rotation.”
The phrasing of “right now” stands out as somewhat ominous, leaving the door cracked for potential future moves amid Thibodeaux’s $14.75 million fifth-year option salary in 2026.
Schoen acknowledged receiving calls about Thibodeaux at the 2025 trade deadline, calling him one of the more popular inquiries, but emphasized he would listen to offers without initiating them.
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Thibodeaux’s production has been inconsistent, highlighted by 11.5 sacks in 2023 but only 2.5 in 10 games last season before a shoulder injury sidelined him. With Brian Burns locked in long-term and recent high draft pick Abdul Carter bolstering the rotation, trade discussions have resurfaced as a way to free cap space.
Recent analyses suggest modest return scenarios, like a fourth-round pick, though insiders caution against accepting less than a Day 2 selection.
For now, Schoen expressed optimism about Thibodeaux’s motivation and role, signaling stability—but not permanence—in the Giants’ plans.
