New York Giants linebacker Kayvon Thibodeaux was the No. 5 overall pick in the 2022 NFL draft, with many believing he could become the franchise’s next great pass rusher.
Through two seasons, Thibodeaux has been solid. He has started in 31 games for New York, recording 99 tackles, including 18 for loss and 15.5 sacks. Solid numbers, for sure, but nothing that would lead him to be considered one of the NFL’s most-feared pass rushers.
However, in four games against the Commanders, Thibodeaux has 15 tackles and 15.5 sacks. So, while he’s been solid against the rest of the NFL, he’s looked like Lawrence Taylor against Washington.
Thibodeaux spoke with the media on Wednesday ahead of Sunday’s Week 2 game between the Commanders and Giants. While he’s looking forward to facing Washington rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, he doesn’t have a lot of respect for the Commanders as a whole.
“I would say, Washington, in particular, they’re not really a rival, but they’re an in-conference…in our same division, so it’s always a great game. We see them twice a year. So, I’m excited; Jayden Daniels is a great QB; he’s from Cali, grew up knowing him, grew up with him, so I understand he’s a great player, and I’m excited to go against him.”
"Washington, they're not really a rival…they're in our same division, so it's always a great game. I'm excited, Jayden Daniels is a great QB."
– Kayvon Thibodeaux on facing the Commanders pic.twitter.com/AqjmkewUL3
— Giants Videos (@SNYGiants) September 11, 2024
That’s an interesting choice of words from Thibodeaux. Sure, he’s experienced success against Washington both individually and from a team perspective. The Giants are 2-0-1 against Washington since Thibodeaux entered the NFL.
Much like the Commanders, the Giants have no right to dismiss any other teams. Outside of a fluke 2022 season, the Giants have been historically bad over the past 11 seasons, finishing with two winning records in that span.
If the Cowboys or Eagles wanted to dismiss the Commanders, that’s more understandable. But does Thibodeaux not realize that’s how Dallas and Philadelphia view his New York Giants?
