The New York Giants are moving forward with outside linebacker Kayvon Thibodeaux playing on his fifth-year contract option for the 2026 season, per Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. As of now, the former top-five pick is scheduled to earn a fully guaranteed $14.751 million for the upcoming campaign.
Thibodeaux was the No. 5 overall selection by the New York Giants in the 2022 NFL Draft. Under the league's current collective bargaining agreement, the decision regarding the fifth-year option for first-round picks from the 2022 class was finalized in 2025. With the 2026 league year approaching, Thibodeaux is officially entering the final year of team control under his rookie-scale contract.
The pass rusher has been a cornerstone of the Giants defensive unit since his debut. By playing on the option year, Thibodeaux remains a key fixture in the team's front seven for the 2026 season. This confirmation clarifies the linebacker's immediate status with the organization as he prepares for his fifth year in the league.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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