The New York Giants made a major addition to the pass rush during the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft, but it doesn't appear to impact one of the current starters.
Even with the addition of Penn State star Abdul Carter, the Giants announced their decision to exercise the fifth-year option in Kayvon Thibodeaux's rookie contract.
The move is expected to cost New York roughly $14.75 million fully guaranteed in 2026, per Over The Cap.
General manager Joe Schoen confirmed the decision Thursday night after the selection of Carter.
"Yeah, we're going to exercise his fifth-year option. We've already told him that. That was earlier this week. I know that stuff is out there, but again, you can just throw anything at the wall right now and people go with it," Schoen said.
In 2024, Thibodeaux put together a strong campaign despite finishing with only 5.5 sacks. His 42 total pressures were just six fewer than his career-high mark, and he was on pace for 59 total pressures had he played a full season, per Next Gen Stats.
The former No. 5 overall pick has been surrounded by trade rumors given the circumstances of the fifth-year option decision. This decision essentially guarantees Thibodeaux will at least remain in New York through the duration of his rookie contract — barring a Godfather offer from another team.
"Kayvon is going to be here. We're excited to have him. You can't have enough pass rushers," Schoen said.
As for the other 2022 first-round pick, offensive tackle Evan Neal, there wasn't a comment from Schoen about his option.