Saints-Giants Blockbuster Trade Idea Ships $31 Million Game-Wrecker To New Orleans

Saints-Giants Trade Idea Sends $31 Million Pass-Rusher to New Orleans

Could the Saints benefit from adding another edge rusher?

It seems the New Orleans Saints are focused on giving themselves the best shot at making the playoffs in 2025, for better or worse. After opting to keep veteran quarterback Derek Carr for another season, the Saints went on an unexpected spending spree in free agency. Clearly, they’re willing to push their salary cap challenges down the road for at least one more year.

One of the Saints’ major weaknesses during their disappointing 5-12 season in 2024 was a lackluster pass rush. They ranked 30th in the league with a 31% pass-rush win rate and also struggled in run defense, ranking 30th in run stop win rate. This made their front seven a liability on both fronts.

Could a trade for a former top-five overall draft pick be just what New Orleans needs to strengthen their defense?

Earlier this week, Anthony Palacios of Last Word On Sports suggested that the Saints could be a good fit for New York Giants outside linebacker Kayvon Thibodeaux. Thibodeaux’s rookie contract, worth $31 million, is set to expire at the end of the 2025 season unless the Giants exercise his fifth-year option.

“The Saints had one of the worst defenses last season, but they’re bringing back Chase Young and adding Justin Reid to improve their secondary,” Palacios noted. “However, after losing Willie Gay, the team needs another linebacker. Thibodeaux may be a bit rusty after injury, but it could be worth taking a chance on him since he’s still young.”

At 24, Thibodeaux hasn’t fully blossomed into a superstar yet, but when healthy, he’s a disruptive force. He’s racked up 21 sacks, six forced fumbles, and 46 quarterback hits over 43 games with the Giants.

Though Thibodeaux missed five games last season due to a fractured wrist, he returned to form late in the year, finishing with 2.5 sacks in the Giants’ final two games. If Palacios’ suggestion holds true and Thibodeaux becomes available via trade, he could provide a significant boost to the Saints’ defense.