Kayvon Thibodeaux could only watch when the New York Giants defeated the Tennessee Titans via a two-point conversion.
He couldn’t participate in the game because of the cut block he received from Thaddeus Moss during their preseason game against the Cincinnati Bengals.
That block rendered him laying on the field while wincing in pain.
Giants fans had a sigh of relief, though, after he was able to walk on his own.
However, he was sidelined from action after suffering from a sprained medial collateral ligament in his right knee.
The injury forced him out of competition for three to four weeks.
With that timeline nearing its completion, Thibodeaux cannot wait to take the field for the team that selected him fifth overall in the 2022 NFL Draft.
Kayvon Thibodeaux says he feels “really confident” in playing Sunday. He’s very “optimistic” about playing vs. Panthers, but see how he feels next few days before Sunday. Still has some hurdles to clear and remains day to day after participating in a limited capacity Thursday.
— Jordan Raanan (@JordanRaanan) September 15, 2022
ESPN NFL Nation reporter Jordan Raanan tweeted, “Kayvon Thibodeaux says he feels “really confident” in playing Sunday. He’s very “optimistic” about playing vs. Panthers, but see how he feels next few days before Sunday. Still has some hurdles to clear and remains day to day after participating in a limited capacity Thursday.”
There is no word yet on whether he can suit up in Week 2 against the Carolina Panthers.
But the Giants won’t rush him back, especially when he is still feeling some pain.
After all, the team has high hopes for him as a potential cornerstone on defense.
Thibodeaux And Azeez Ojulari Waiting For Their Opportunity
Having Thibodeaux on the field would have given the Giants a legitimate threat on their pass rush.
However, it would be better if he lines up with Azeez Ojulari, who set the Giants rookie record for sacks last season with eight.
Unfortunately, Ojulari is dealing with a calf injury that could sideline him for Week 2.
If Thibodeaux gets cleared, he will pave the way in generating pressure against Baker Mayfield.
NEXT: The Giants Have A New Identity With A Healthy Saquon Barkley