By Michael Stewart/@TheTruthNYG
The last time the New York Giants had two players hit the double-digits in sacks in the same season was in 2010 when Justin Tuck and Osi Umenyiora each collected 11.5. Fast forward to 2022 and there’s a buzz in Giant land that perhaps a pair of OLB/EDGE rushers could be the next tandem to accomplish that feat as quickly as this season. Azeez Ojulari and Kayvon Thibodeaux have been projected as the next dominating linebackers to wear Giants blue and white and that’s saying a lot with all the great linebackers that have played here. When you throw in the defensive philosophy of new DC Don (Wink) Martindale and how he likes to implement his pass rushers heavily in his defense; it’s really not a reach that both could have the opportunity to get 10+ sacks. Here’s what each player brings to the table as a lethal edge rusher:
Azeez Ojulari
- Explosive first step off the snap
- Excellent balance and hand usage
- Extreme bend with high end speed
- Endless motor with an relentless mindset
Kayvon Thibodeaux
- Long, strong explosive and plays hard
- Elite speed and quickness off the snap
- Disruptive mentality with a relentless approach
- Heavy hands create separation between him and the blocker
These are just four attributes of each player, but I think you get the idea that both have the ingredients to become elite edge rushers and sack machines. Of course, staying healthy will play a big part in this and hopefully both can avoid serious injuries. GM Joe Schoen has envisioned this dynamic duo to do great things the moment he selected Thibodeaux with the 5th overall pick in the 2022 NFL draft. Giant fans are also hoping that this tandem can cause havoc on opposing quarterbacks for the next decade and perhaps remind Giant fans old and new of the great former Giant linebackers that have blessed our eyes with extraordinary feats of superhero performances; and maybe, just maybe Ojulari and Thibodeaux will be mentioned in the same sentence as them one day.