Would the Carolina Panthers have taken University of Oregon defensive end Kayvon Thibodeaux this past spring had he not been selected right before their sixth overall pick?
Probably not. The actual selection—North Carolina State University offensive tackle Ikem Ekwonu—was general manager Scott Fitterer’s top prospect since March.
But, we’re giving them another chance anyway!
In this week’s edition of “Player Prowl,” we’re jacking a G-Man from New York. And although we may have a safer choice in eighth-year veteran Leonard Williams (who we actually took last season), we’re opting for the upside in his fellow defensive lineman—the 21-year-old Thibodeaux.
The 6-foot-5, 258-pound edge defender was the first of the Giants’ two first-round picks a few months back. Sandwiching Carolina’s sixth selection, New York plucked away Thibodeaux at No. 5, then University of Alabama offensive tackle Evan Neal at No. 7.
Unfortunately, the rookie didn’t see the field in last week’s opener—as he’s still dealing with a sprained right MCL. Heck, we still might not see him on Sunday against the Panthers.
Regardless, what we have already seen of Thibodeaux is too much to pass up. He recorded 35.5 sacks in 30 games at Oregon and displayed a game-breaking type of style that this Carolina defense is still missing—especially with the offseason departure of Haason Reddick.
So, do you agree with our pick?
