Carolina rumored to add former top-5 pick to defensive rebuild, per report
The Carolina Panthers made strides to upgrade their edge unit this offseason—but are they done? That might depend on whether a rising defensive star is suddenly within reach.
According to reports, the New York Giants may be open to moving pass rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux, despite picking up his fifth-year option. After signing Brian Burns to a $141 million deal—ironically plucked from Carolina—and drafting linebacker Abdul Carter, the Giants have created a crowd at edge. Thibodeaux, who notched 11.5 sacks in 2023, could be the odd man out.
Thibodeaux, still just 24, has the upside of a cornerstone pass rusher. His combination of speed and strength is rare, and he’s proven capable of disrupting games. Pairing him with rookies Nic Scourton and Princely Umanmielen, both touted for their explosiveness, would give coordinator Ejiro Evero a high-ceiling trio to develop.
As veteran Jadeveon Clowney—who had 7.5 sacks last season—turns 32 and plays on an expiring deal, Carolina could explore flipping him or DJ Wonnum to the Giants. Wonnum is also on the final year of his contract, making either a movable piece.
Adding Thibodeaux would represent a long-term play. With Scourton (2nd round) and Umanmielen (3rd round) already in the fold, Carolina could suddenly field one of the league’s most promising edge rotations. Defensive line coach Todd Wash could rotate multiple players who all bring burst, bend, and big-play potential.
As Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox put it, “The Carolina Panthers could look to pair Thibodeaux with second-round rookie Nic Scourton and third-round rookie Princely Umanmielen to form an exciting young edge rotation.”
The Panthers need a defensive identity. Swinging for Thibodeaux won’t come cheap—but it might be the aggressive move that sets Carolina’s rebuild on fire. If the opportunity knocks, the front office can’t afford to stay quiet.
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