aggressive pursuers of Kayvon Thibodeaux – the 24-year-old edge rusher from the New York Giants with 23.5 career sacks. Insider sources from Bleacher Report and Sporting News (Mike Moraitis, 15/10) indicate that GM John Lynch has contacted the Giants to explore trade possibilities, aiming to address the defensive gap after Nick Bosa’s ACL injury.

With only 12 sacks after 6 weeks – second-fewest in the NFL – the 49ers are “thirsty” for pass rush. Thibodeaux, drafted #5 in 2022, has 2.5 sacks and 22 pressures in 2025, evaluated by Kristopher Knox (Bleacher Report) as a “long-term solution” to replace Bosa. “Niners need an edge rusher who can change games, and Thibodeaux has All-Pro potential,” Knox wrote. Expected price: 2026 second-round pick – reasonable since he has 1 year left on rookie contract (9.9 million USD salary).

The Giants (2-3), thanks to rookie QB Jaxson Dart, are considering selling to focus offense around Malik Nabers. However, general manager Joe Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll – fighting for their jobs – might keep Thibodeaux if the team keeps winning. Tampa Bay Buccaneers are also mentioned as competitors, but 49ers are considered the “lead suitor” due to ample cap space and urgent need.

In a recent practice at Levi’s Stadium, when asked about the possibility of pairing with Thibodeaux, Mykel Williams – the first-round rookie edge rusher with 2.0 sacks this season – didn’t hide his excitement: “Kayvon is truly a monster. I’ve watched him since his Oregon days — speed, power, bend around the edge, all at elite level. Playing next to him is what I look forward to most. When we hit the field together, Niners defense will become a nightmare for every quarterback. And I believe Bosa will be proud to see us continue the legacy he’s built.”

49ers fans on X are buzzing with #TradeForThibs, sharing highlights of his 11.5 sacks from 2023. If the deal happens, Thibodeaux will pair perfectly with Mykel Williams, turning Levi’s Stadium into a “nightmare” for opposing QBs. Head coach Kyle Shanahan hasn’t commented, but insider sources say: “Lynch is working non-stop.”