The Detroit Lions bounced back in dominant fashion during Week 2, erasing doubts about their sluggish opener with a 52-point, 511-yard explosion against the Chicago Bears. While the offense stole the spotlight, the defense also held its own, sacking rookie quarterback Caleb Williams four times with pressure coming from multiple defenders.
Still, some analysts believe Detroit could use another edge rusher. Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox listed the Lions as one of the teams that could pursue New York Giants pass rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux, should he become available on the trade block.
The Giants have stumbled to an 0-2 start, fueling speculation that they might consider moving key players. Knox suggested Thibodeaux could draw serious interest if New York doesn’t find momentum soon, noting that head coach Brian Daboll is just 9-27 since the team’s 2022 playoff run. Trading the 24-year-old, he argued, could give the franchise valuable draft capital for what appears to be a looming rebuild.
Thibodeaux, drafted fifth overall in 2022, has already logged 1.5 sacks, seven tackles, two tackles for loss, and three QB hits this season. His breakout year came two seasons ago when he notched 11.5 sacks, 12 TFLs, and 16 QB hits. In total, through 45 career games, he has 22.5 sacks, 28 tackles for loss, 49 quarterback hits, six forced fumbles, and 11 pass breakups.
Could Detroit Make a Move?
The Lions’ pass rush showed depth in Week 2 with Aidan Hutchinson, Marcus Davenport, Al-Quadin Muhammad, and Brian Branch each recording a sack. However, Davenport left the game with ankle and shoulder issues. While head coach Dan Campbell told 97.1 The Ticket he won’t know the severity until later in the week, injuries like this often spark trade buzz.
Detroit was previously linked to other edge rushers, including Trey Hendrickson, during the offseason. Knox projected that Thibodeaux could be worth a 2026 second-round pick—a price the Lions might consider paying if they believe he’s the missing piece to fuel a Super Bowl push.
Will the Giants Actually Deal Thibodeaux?
Even if Detroit shows interest, there’s no guarantee the Giants will part ways with Thibodeaux anytime soon. The team already invested long-term in Brian Burns, and rookie Abdul Carter is on a cheap contract through at least 2028, creating potential roster flexibility. However, the Giants exercised the fifth-year option on Thibodeaux, meaning he’s under team control until 2027.
That timeline gives New York plenty of options. They could explore a trade before the November 5, 2025 deadline, wait until the offseason, or even hold off until the 2026 deadline if their fortunes don’t change.
For now, Thibodeaux remains a Giant, but if the team continues to slide, his name could headline trade rumors—and the Lions may be one of the first teams in line.
