By Blessing 
Detroit Lions May Have a New Defensive Star in Sight
The Detroit Lions might not have landed NFL powerhouses Myles Garrett or Maxx Crosby this offseason, but that doesn’t mean all hope is lost. There’s still one intriguing option left on the table—and it’s starting to gain some traction.
The Lions have been busy shaking things up this offseason. After a strong 2024 campaign, the team is going through some major changes, both on and off the field. With key coaching staff members moving on and some notable players parting ways with the franchise, head coach Dan Campbell and his team haven’t had much time to sit still. They’ve been deep into signings, re-signings, and trying to build a blueprint for the future.
And now, a potential move is starting to come into focus. While nothing’s official just yet, there’s a growing sense that Detroit might be eyeing its next defensive star.
Could Kayvon Thibodeaux Be Detroit’s Next Big Splash?
The Lions weren’t able to strike deals for elite pass rushers like Myles Garrett or Maxx Crosby, which stung a bit considering both were viewed as top-tier talents who could have made an immediate impact. But the door isn’t closed just yet—and another name is emerging as a legitimate possibility.
NFL analyst Mason Cameron of Pro Football Focus recently spotlighted New York Giants edge rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux as a player the Lions could and should go after. Instead of waiting on a rookie to develop, Detroit could bring in a proven talent ready to hit the ground running.
“With a fifth-year option decision looming – a subsequent extension – New York has a decision to make on what path forward to take with Thibodeaux,” Cameron wrote in his March 20 analysis. “Should the Giants decide to maximize their trade value for Thibs, now would be the time. Detroit has the structure in place to tap into the pass rusher’s potential, as well as the cap space to facilitate an extension, should the team decide to.”
That fifth-year option for Thibodeaux is a key deadline. The Giants have until May 1 to make their decision. If they pick it up, he’s likely staying in New York. If not, he could be available—and the Lions could be ready to pounce.
Given the current state of the Giants, it wouldn’t be shocking if they entertained offers. The team is trying to sort out its quarterback situation and figure out a long-term plan at that position, which could make them more open to making a trade, especially if it helps them in the draft.
Thibodeaux: A Proven Disruptor With Room to Grow
Thibodeaux may not have had a jaw-dropping stat line last season, but he still made his presence felt. In another Pro Football Focus piece released on the same day, analyst Bradley Locker made a compelling case for why Thibodeaux is New York’s most valuable trade asset.
“The Giants are in a strange place from a roster construction standpoint in that they either have untouchable young players or players who seemingly wouldn’t attract much interest,” Locker explained. “The one player who might fit into an alternate category is Thibodeaux.”
Locker also added that, despite reports indicating the Giants might pick up the fifth-year option, general manager Joe Schoen could still move on from Thibodeaux and shift focus toward a younger option in the draft—perhaps someone like Penn State standout Abdul Carter, who’s projected to go early in the first round.
Thibodeaux’s 2024 numbers reflect a solid campaign, even though he missed time due to a wrist injury that required surgery. He recorded 5.5 sacks and 42 total pressures, just six shy of his career-best mark. According to Next Gen Stats, he was on pace for 59 pressures before the injury sidelined him for five games.
While the sack total might not turn heads, his consistent disruption and ability to apply pressure show a player who’s just scratching the surface of his potential. And in a system like Detroit’s—where aggressive, physical defense is the name of the game—he could take the next leap in his development.
A Move That Makes Sense on All Fronts
If the Giants decide to make Thibodeaux available, the Lions might have every reason to make a serious offer. They have the defensive infrastructure, the cap space, and the kind of leadership that could help him thrive. And with the team already building toward what they hope is a deep playoff run in 2025, adding a rising defensive force like Thibodeaux could be a game-changer.
Time will tell what the Giants decide to do, but if they’re open to dealing, Detroit should be among the first teams making a call.