As the 2025 NFL season kicks off, Dan Campbell’s Detroit Lions enter the year considered one of the premier contenders for the Lombardi Trophy.
They dominated throughout last season’s regular campaign but collapsed in stunning fashion with a playoff loss to the Washington Commanders, leaving the team and fans with a bitter taste all offseason.
Now, with the season opener against the Green Bay Packers just hours away, Detroit is eager to prove that setback was only a temporary hurdle. Still, a few lingering concerns remain that could impact their quest to finally bring a championship to the franchise.
One of the most pressing issues is adding more support to the pass rush. While Aidan Hutchinson remains the defensive cornerstone, reinforcements are needed. A potential solution has surfaced in the form of a major trade proposal.
According to Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report, the Lions could look toward the New York Giants for help—specifically targeting young pass rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux.
“Thibodeaux would require a serious trade package, but he offers far more upside than Neal. Though he hasn’t developed into the dominant force the Giants envisioned when they drafted him fifth overall in 2022, he’s only 24 years old, has averaged seven sacks per season, and is under contract for two more years,” Knox explained.
Knox floated the idea that a 2026 second-round draft pick might be enough to secure Thibodeaux. If that is the asking price, Detroit could find it hard to resist.
Last season, the former Oregon standout appeared in 12 games, posting 28 tackles, 5.5 sacks, a forced fumble, and two pass breakups. Over his three-year career spanning 43 games, he has accumulated 127 tackles, 21 sacks, six forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries, and 11 passes defended.
Whether or not the Lions actually pursue the deal remains uncertain. But one thing is clear—if Detroit is serious about completing its championship puzzle, Thibodeaux could be the final piece that helps them reach the Super Bowl.
