As the New York Giants patiently waited for their turn during the 2022 NFL draft, they were prepared for any scenario. Luckily, the chips fell in their favor.
The Giants ended up taking Kayvon Thibodeaux, the edge rusher out of Oregon, fifth overall. Most were thrilled with the fact that Big Blue addressed the offensive line and defensive line with their two top-10 picks.
Both Evan Neal, who the Giants drafted seventh overall, and Thibodeaux were projected to go higher than they did in a number of different mock drafts over the past year.
Obviously, both first-round picks come in highly touted and it seems promising that they their talent will transition smoothly to the NFL level.
This week Brian Baldinger broke down the movement of the Giants newest edge rusher:
.@Giants @kayvont has ELITE Movement in all phases of the game. Time to get your sack dance ready for KT. #BaldysBreakdowns pic.twitter.com/ZgYbp14vja
— Brian Baldinger (@BaldyNFL) April 29, 2022
That “elite movement,” as Baldinger calls it, is precisely what the Giants were looking for in the draft. Thibodeaux has made it clear that he is going to work hard for Big Blue so hopefully, the transition to the NFL is a smooth one for the rookie so he can make an instant impact on the Giants’ defense.
Thibodeaux joins a defensive line that includes Azeez Ojulari as well as Leonard Williams and Dexter Lawrence. Ideally, with the talent on the defensive line, Thibodeaux can thrive under Wink Martindale.