Kayvon Thibodeaux – EDGE – 21 – Redshirt Sophomore – Oregon
Cut : 1m96
Weight : 115kg
Estimated draft position: Top 5
Stats 2021: 49 tackles including 12 for losses, 7 sacks, 2 passes defended and 2 forced fumbles
NFL Comparison: A “little” Jadeveon Clowney
Strong points
– Physical Dimension
– Explosiveness
– Run defense
– Football IQ
– Versatility
Before talking about the field, we must talk about the athlete. Kayvon Thibodeaux has the perfect dimensions for the position of EDGE, with measurements and speed that make him a versatile player, able to evolve in all systems. His long arms and his agility make him above all a physical phenomenon, which he later confirmed on the pitch.
Thibodeaux is not only fast, he is explosive, which makes him a player capable of suspending any opponent. This characteristic allows him to be a real “hunter” against the race, since he is able to pursue the opposing runner if necessary. The defense against the run is also the main quality of the Oregon player, as he seems able to cover all spaces with a great ability to anticipate.
When one is as intelligent as Thibodeaux with such physical dimensions, the limits to development are few. In defense 4-3 like 3-4, the duck will know how to fit into the mold to impact the game. Whoever the defensive coordinator is in charge, having a player of this caliber is a blessing. Kadeveon Clowney or Von Miller, there are many comparisons as to what the player can become in the NFL.
Weak points
– Hand work
– Pass rush
As often for a young player, the main axis of improvement is on the technical level. The placement of the hands can be improved, but it is especially the disengagement that poses a problem. Such a dominant player must be able to gain distance to find a new lease of life, which Thibodeaux does not often do. It must be said that given his domination he did not have to do more, but he must prove that he can play the action until the end.
Thibodeaux does not have to be ashamed of his number of career sacks, but he owes it more to his physical domination against weak opponents in PAC 12 than to an extraordinary technique. His movements are not diversified, and his ability to make a difference in the bull rush will not be enough in the NFL. You will have to work to become more unpredictable in order to surprise your opponent, especially if you are facing a mountain that can meet the physical challenge.
The stat
35.5 tackles for loss in 30 games
While sacks illustrate an EDGE’s ability to be dominant in the pass rush, tackles for loss give a better picture of the player’s overall impact. On the three attempts, Thibodeaux is impactful, and that’s what makes him such a watched player.
Possible destinations
Jacksonville Jaguars, Detroit Lions, Houston Texans, New York Jets, New York Giants, Atlanta Falcons
Given the qualities of the player, difficult to see him out of the top 5. All the teams are likely to have an eye on him, whether to support Josh Allen in Florida or to bring a new dimension to the defensive line in Michigan, Texas or New York City.
Against the run or the pass, he is a starter from day one on all three attempts, which is not so common at the time of the draft. Talent and muscles, the ideal recipe for success in the NFL. If Thibodeaux falls, Atlanta should jump at the chance.
