Detroit Lions First Round Target #4: Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE
We already talked about how the Lions lacked a threatening pass rush a season ago, meaning they might not shy away from the position just because Hutchinson is off the board. While Hutchinson is the best of the bunch, the edge rusher unit is deep in the 2022 NFL Draft.
One name that used to top lists before the season was Kayvon Thibodeaux. Thibodeaux didn’t necessarily do anything wrong in 2021, but it wasn’t enough to maintain the hype of being the best prospect in the class. He tallied 12 tackles for loss and seven sacks, neither of which were career highs, but are still impressive.
If the Lions do decide to stick with the best edge rusher available, no matter what, at number two Thibodeaux could very well be in play. However, a lot of others could be as well. Georgia’s Travon Walker and Florida State’s Jermaine Johnson continue to climb boards and there’s a chance either of them could be in the mix as well.
The fact with Thibodeaux is that he’s proven he can perform at a high level consistently. He didn’t emerge during the 2021 season, but put together three strong collegiate seasons. The Lions need consistency and that’s what Thibodeaux brings, making him the best of the edge rush bunch for Detroit after Hutchinson.