The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are less than a week from kicking off their 2025 season. With the roster seemingly set, this looks like one of the most competitive teams in the NFC once again.
But after a shocking trade that sent superstar edge rusher Micah Parsons from the Dallas Cowboys to the Green Bay Packers, the pecking order of the conference has been shaken up.
Before games get underway, the Bucs have a chance to make a last-second move to strengthen a key position. It could end up being the difference between another early playoff exit and a push for the Super Bowl.
Buccaneers could pull off final trade for Kayvon Thibodeaux
Haason Reddick and Yaya Diaby are capable starters on the edge for Tampa Bay. If Reddick can return to his form from a couple of years ago, he could be a dominant pass-rushing force. Opposite him, Diaby has proven himself to be a capable secondary edge piece.
But you can never have too much pass-rushing juice in the NFL. Former top-five draft pick and backup New York Giants' edge rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux might be available for a trade before the start of the season, and Tampa Bay should seriously consider making an offer.
Thibodeaux has been inconsistent since the Giants took him fifth overall in the 2022 NFL Draft. He posted 13 sacks in 2023, but he's been disappointing otherwise. After New York traded for Brian Burns and drafted Abdul Carter, Thibodeaux was swiftly moved to the bench. He's still expected to play a role for the G-Men this year, but the team seems ready to move on from him.
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He might just thrive under less pressure in Tampa Bay. The former Oregon star could focus on being a pass-rush specialist while Diaby takes the early-down work. The combination of Thibodeaux and Reddick on third downs could be truly dangerous for opposing offenses.
Better yet, the Bucs wouldn't have to give an arm and a leg to get him. The Giants might let him go in exchange for a mid-round draft pick, a small price to pay to assemble a winning pass rush.
Todd Bowles has clearly stated that he wants his defense to be able to pressure the quarterback with four rushers. Even with Reddick in the building, the front might not be at a high enough level to do that. By trading for Thibodeaux, Tampa Bay could turn a borderline weakness into a defined strength.