Aug 21, 2022; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Giants defensive end Kayvon Thibodeaux (5) warms up prior to the preseason game against the Cincinnati Bengals at MetLife Stadium. — John Jones-USA TODAY Sports

Wink Martindale Pleased with Rookie Kayvon Thibodeaux's Progress

Kayvon Thibodeaux might not have the sacks just yet, but he's certainly been doing his part on the Giants' defense.

Author:
Patricia Traina
Publish date:
Nov 17, 2022 5:28 PM EST

In this story:

Not long after he was drafted fifth overall by the New York Giants, outside linebacker Kayvon Thibodeaux of Oregon was immediately viewed as a favorite to win Defensive Rookie of the Year honors.

But things quickly change in the NFL. Thibodeaux, now listed behind cornerback Ahmad Gardner (Jets), cornerback Tariq Woolen (Seahawks), and edge Aiden Hutchinson (Lions), among others for the DROY honors, suffered a knee injury in a preseason game that cost him the first two weeks of the regular season.

Since returning, he's only managed one sack in seven games (205 pass rush snaps), which to some critics is a major disappointment given Thiibodeaux's draft status.

But to one of a small handful of people whose opinions about the rookie's play matter the most, Thibodeaux is coming along just fine, even if he doesn't have the numbers to show for it.

"I know everybody wants to say, ‘sacks, sacks, sacks’ to him after games whenever you do the media with him," said defensive coordinator Wink Martindale. "But if there are 1,000 plays run and we’re happy with him in 950 of them, it’s better than the guy that has 12 sacks, plays 600 plays and can’t play the run, can’t do this, can’t do that."

The veteran defensive coordinator pointed out that in the Giants' defensive system, some guys have to do the dirty work to make things happen for others, which is where Thibodeaux is currently at in his development.

"It’s a position-less defense, and when you look at the defense statistically in areas where there are a lot of sacks, he’s doing the selfless work," Martindale said.

"I always say we’re going to open up a can of whoop-ass. Well, he’s the can opener. You have a guy running free to the quarterback, playing a single high safety. Well, he has to do the right pattern to get that guy free, and that’s what pleases me about the guy himself."

Thibodeaux is only too happy to oblige with what is asked of him, even at the expense of his personal stats.

"I would say it’s more satisfying when they make the play because sometimes you do do things, and it’s like they almost make (a play)," he said. "There’s always an 'if,' but when they do make it, it’s always fun to rejoice with your teammate."

The rookie's contributions are also appreciated by his teammates.

"I think Kayvon has done a great job of getting acclimated to the guys off rip," said defensive back Julian Love. "Everybody has a close relationship with him now because he’s so forward with how he is. It’s made it easier to be complementary with him on the football field. He’s done a great job. His being a fifth overall pick is a lot of pressure, but he’s handled it well."

Martindale, who expressed appreciation for how the rookie has conducted himself and the patience he has shown, believes that in time, Thibodeaux will start producing the sacks that so far have eluded him.

"I just think the kid is playing great," he said. "It’s just like takeaways or anything else; the sacks will come. The other thing is to look at the holding calls he’s drawn, you know, you look at the whole picture. He drops well in coverage. I can’t say nothing but positives about how he’s playing, how he’s chasing after the football like a veteran, studying like a veteran, leading like a veteran. So, I’m really glad he’s a Giant."

So is Love.

"As long as you keep doing the right things, the sky is the limit, and he’s one of those guys that has a tremendous base under him. As long as he continues to grow, he’ll be a good player in this league," he said.