Tuesday, December 7, 2021

2022 NFL Draft Kayvon Thibodeaux

DE Kayvon Thibodeaux:

Scouting Reports:











Articles:

Not a fit? Kayvon Thibodeaux wants to know how these Lions rumors started (4-28-22):  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/sports/detroit-lions/thibodeaux-wants-to-know-how-these-lions-rumors-started

Kayvon Thibodeaux Draft Diary: 'My love for the game is unshakable' (4-27-22):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/kayvon-thibodeaux-2022-nfl-draft-diary

Kayvon Thibodeaux says he ‘hit it off’ with Brad Holmes, is on Dan Campbell’s ‘speed dial’ (4-27-22):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/4/27/23045460/kayvon-thibodeaux-says-he-hit-it-off-with-brad-holmes-is-on-dan-campbells-speed-dial

2022 NFL draft: Why I mocked Oregon pass rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux to the Detroit Lions (4-27-22):  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/04/2022-nfl-draft-why-i-mocked-oregon-pass-rusher-kayvon-thibodeaux-to-the-detroit-lions.html

Kayvon Thibodeaux Shares Meeting Lions GM Like 'My Uncle at a Cookout' (4-27-22): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/nfl/lions/news/thibodeaux-shares-details-meeting-brad-holmes

Potential game-changer for Lions, Thibodeaux unfazed by bad rap: "It's comical" (4-27-22):  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/sports/detroit-lions/kayvon-thibodeaux-unfazed-by-bad-rap-its-comical

NFL Draft bust candidates: Malik Willis, Kayvon Thibodeaux, Drake London and the riskiest picks in 2022 (Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon:  Thibodeaux was once considered a potential candidate for the No. 1 overall pick, but things have changed for the former Oregon star. He has steadily watched his draft stock decline and will probably be the third edge rusher off the board behind Aidan Hutchinson and Walker.  What has caused Thibodeaux to drop in the edge defender rankings? Some teams and draft analysts are questioning Thibodeaux's competitive drive, as ESPN's Todd McShay pointed out after the Senior Bowl.  "I heard a lot about Oregon defensive end Kayvon Thibodeaux, including concerns that he just doesn't play with the same fire as some other top prospects. His ceiling is high, but the floor is lower than what you want for a top-five pick. And based on a handful of conversations, it wouldn't shock me if Thibodeaux fell out of the top five."  Since then, Thibodeaux decided not to do on-field drills at the NFL Combine, and negative reports of his work ethic and love of football emerged. Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer even reported that Dan Campbell and the Lions aren't considering him with the No. 2 pick.  “His personality is a lot,” an NFL executive told Breer, “and you hear the head coach there isn’t a fan.”  These rumors are enough to make the prospect of drafting Thibodeaux a risk. Perhaps the work ethic concerns will be unfounded, but if they aren't it will be hard for Thibodeaux to find consistent success against the bigger, stronger, faster athletes in the NFL.) (4-27-22):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-draft-busts-2022-malik-willis-kayvon-thibodeaux-drake-london/lctod3kaykhp461sz9pgkyjp


NFL Draft News and Rumors: Teams doing late homework on Oregon pass rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux (4-26-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-draft-news-rumors-teams-doing-late-homework-oregon-pass-rusher-kayvon-thibodeaux/

2022 NFL Draft: Kayvon Thibodeaux expects to be great on, off field (4-26-22):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2022-nfl-draft-kayvon-thibodeaux-expects-to-be-great-on-off-field

TWENTYMAN: 10 prospects who make sense for Lions in first round (3. Edge rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux, Oregon:  Thibodeaux has terrific athletic traits coming off the edge that made him a terrific pass rusher at Oregon, but also a player who could set the edge well in the run game. He might have the quickest first step of any the pass rushers in this year's class. He doesn't have as many pro-ready pass-rush moves as Hutchinson or Johnson at this point, but those will come with NFL coaching. Thibodeaux has a really high ceiling.  Holmes was at Thibodeaux's game against UCLA this past season where Thibodeaux had nine tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, two sacks and a forced fumble. The Lions have since done a lot of homework on Thibodeaux. He recorded 19.0 career sacks in 31 games and his 34.5 tackles for loss are the fifth most among active Power 5 players since the start of 2019.) (4-26-22):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/10-prospects-who-make-sense-for-lions-hutchinson-johnson-thibodeaux

2022 NFL Draft Week Rumors Tuesday (One of the wild cards high in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft is Oregon defensive end Kayvon Thibodeaux. Entering the 2022 NFL Draft process, Thibodeaux was a favorite to go No. 1 overall, but he fell from that standing due to a variety of reasons. Those include his 2021 tape being not dominant as in the past and that he took a lot of plays off. Thibodeaux also developed a reputation of being focused on "his brand" and not loving football. Here is the quote from an AFC director of college scouting:  "Thibs is a bit overhyped - good but not a deluxe athlete. Kayvon doesn't love ball, isn't a team guy and everything is transactional with him, like a business deal. Big smoker & teammates roll their eyes at him. Got a lot of crap that comes with him, and he's not a freak."  Other team sources said that Thibodeaux did poorly in the interviews and he bombed some pre-draft visits. That being said, teams like his speed off the edge and natural quarterback-hunting skills. With that conundrum, Thibodeaux could as high as No. 3 overall to the Texans or he could slide to late in the top 10 or to the early teens. If he does slide, the character issues and the reputation for not loving football will be why.) (4-26-22):  https://walterfootball.com/nflhotpress/article/2022-NFL-Draft-Week-Rumors-Tuesday

Why the Lions should pick Kayvon Thibodeaux with the second overall pick (4-25-22):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/4/25/23040024/detroit-lions-should-draft-kayvon-thibodeaux

Detroit Lions 2022 NFL Draft Primer (Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon:  The consensus top pick for a large majority of all last fall, Thibodeaux has seen his stock drop precipitously in recent months. Some say he has a little bit of stiffness to his game and has a personality that may not be a fit for every team. On tape, Thibodeaux looks the part.) (4-25-22):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-2022-nfl-draft-primer#gid=ci029f8d44d00025d4&pid=willis5

5 Lions draft thoughts and 1 bold prediction to kick off 2022 NFL draft week (Kayvon Thibodeaux is still very much in play - The narratives around Oregon EDGE Kayvon Thibodeaux are wild. It’s not even worth trying to disseminate the discourse. Here’s what is germane to Detroit:  Thibodeaux is absolutely still in play for the team at No. 2. No question. I do believe there are some in the Lions draft room who are not sold on Thibodeaux, for reasons both on and off the field. I also strongly believe he’s the player GM Brad Holmes would take at No. 2 if the decision was solely his — even over Hutchinson.  But that’s not how this Lions front office rolls. It’s very much a collaborative effort between Holmes, assistant GM Ray Agnew, senior advisor John Dorsey, head coach Dan Campbell, special assistant Chris Spielman and an empowered scouting and coaching staff. Holmes is the ultimate decision-maker, but he’s not the type to override the system.) (4-25-22):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/lists/5-lions-draft-thoughts-and-1-bold-prediction-to-kick-off-2022-nfl-draft-week/

Jermaine Johnson II could be 'best edge rusher' in draft and a fit for Lions at No. 2 (On Thibodeaux, probably the most explosive pass rusher in the draft, Cosell said he "reminded me at times of a Jadeveon Clowney, who’s actually had his most success in the NFL moving inside and rushing the quarterback, which Thibodeaux did at Oregon as well. But his game is built on get-off and power much more than bend and flexibility.") (4-26-22):  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/sports/detroit-lions/jermaine-johnson-ii-could-be-a-fit-for-lions-with-no-2-pick

2022 NFL Draft Notebook: Quick Hits On The Top 10 Choices (Lions at No. 2: It’s pretty easy if the Jaguars roll with Walker--it’s Aidan Hutchinson to his hometown Lions. But if Hutchinson is gone, it’s not as simple as just giving Travon Walker to the Lions.  Walker is certainly in play. Lions LB coach Kelvin Sheppard ran the Pro Day workout for LBs at Georgia, and Walker flew through the drills faster than actual LB Nakobe Dean--a top 50 pick. You’d better believe that made a huge impression on the Lions and their decision-makers. But Kayvon Thibodeaux is absolutely in play. The Lions have spent all sorts of time and resources checking out the Oregon EDGE.  Yes, there are legit questions about his football character. For a team hellbent on culture and personal fit, Thibodeaux might not be a great match. Or he could be a perfect one. That’s the variable.  GM Brad Holmes has been heavily linked and allegedly attached to Thibodeaux for months. I don’t doubt any of that. But Holmes isn’t an authoritarian type of GM. The Lions are built around a consensus approach that also heavily values the input of head coach Dan Campbell, personnel assistants John Dorsey and Chris Spielman and empowered scouting and coaching staffs. It’s easier for me to believe the in-building consensus is Walker, not Thibodeaux.  And no, I don’t buy the Malik Willis talk one bit. Outside of Lions broadcaster (and criminally underrated OT) Lomas Brown stating he believes the Lions are taking Willis at No. 2 in a recent radio appearance, there has been ZERO talk emanating from inside Detroit about Willis. Nary a word. It’s all external noise. I know it’s hard to fathom, but this regime really, really, really likes Jared Goff. Insert shrug emoji here.) (4-23-22):  https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3453/2022-NFL-Draft-Notebook-Quick-Hits-On-The-Top-10-Choices

Finding NFL player comparisons for the top 32 prospects in the 2022 NFL Draft (Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon (TSN: Andre Branch, Clemson (2012), NFL: Brian Orakpo, Texas (2009), RAS: John Thierry, Alcorn State (1994)):  Thibodeaux began the 2021 season viewed as the top player in the draft, but has slid a little bit over technical concerns with his game. Despite missing some time early in the season, Thibodeaux finished the season with seven sacks and 12 tackles for loss in 10 games, as well as two forced fumbles. There have been a range of comparisons for Thibodeaux, but we're going with defensive end Andre Branch. Both players were 6-4 coming out of college and were measured just five pounds apart. Branch and Thibodeaux showed similar agility numbers — 7.23 3-cone and 4.34 shuttle for Thibodeaux; 7.19 3-cone and 4.25 shuttle for Branch — and comparable 40 times of 4.58 (Thibodeaux) and 4.67 (Branch). As a senior, Branch tallied 10.5 sacks and 17 tackles for loss in 14 games.) (4-22-22):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-player-comparisons-2022-nfl-draft/s5dzevmivykfsrkfx9ibccqt

2022 NFL Draft Position Rankings: Edge Defenders (2. KAYVON THIBODEAUX, OREGON (BIG BOARD RANK: 7):  Thibodeaux has an elite first step combined with an ideal frame for the position. While he lacks refinement, that combination still led to a 91.5 PFF pass-rushing grade in 2021.) (4-22-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-top-2022-nfl-draft-rankings-edge-defenders-aidan-hutchinson-kayvon-thibodeaux-george-karlaftis

Kayvon Thibodeaux suddenly the Vegas favorite to be 2nd overall pick (4-20-22):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/4/20/23033418/nfl-draft-odds-kayvon-thibodeaux-favorite-pick-2-detroit-lions

NFL Draft 2022: Where will prospects Kayvon Thibodeaux, Kenny Pickett land? (4-20-22):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/nfl-draft-2022-where-will-prospects-kayvon-thibodeaux-kenny-pickett-land

2022 NFL Draft: Breece Hall and Tyler Linderbaum head Next Gen Stats model's can't-miss prospects (6.  Kayvon Thibodeaux Oregon · Edge · 21 years old (Production Score: 86, Athleticism Score: 73, OVERALL DRAFT SCORE: 92, PRO BOWL PROBABILITY: 58%):  Thibodeaux has long been on the radar of pro-talent evaluators. The former five-star recruit and 2021 first-team All-American certainly has the pass-rushing traits of a perennial Pro Bowler. At 6-4 and 254 pounds, Thibodeaux posted a 4.58 40-yard dash, 1.59 10-yard split and 27 reps on the bench press in Indianapolis. Only one other edge rusher invited to the combine since 2003 also ran a sub-4.60 40 at 250-plus, put up 25-plus bench reps and earned an 80-plus production score: DeMarcus Ware in 2005.  Among all prospects in this year's class, Thibodeaux has the highest chance of making a Pro Bowl within his first three seasons (58%), according to the NGS model. Only Josh Allen (62%) and Nick Bosa (60%) entered the draft with higher odds -- and both of them have indeed hit the Pro Bowl.) (4-18-22):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2022-nfl-draft-breece-hall-and-tyler-linderbaum-head-next-gen-stats-model-s-can-

2022 NFL Draft: 7 first-round mysteries ... SOLVED!! (4. Will Kayvon Thibodeaux slide out of the top 10?  Thibodeaux entered the 2021 season widely regarded as the top prospect in college football, but the NFL scouting community has seemingly cooled on the Oregon edge rusher. Critics have openly bemoaned his inconsistent production and motor, while also questioning his "love for the game." With additional concerns about his focus due to his burgeoning brand as a businessman/athlete, there is a narrative out on Thibodeaux that overshadows his immense talent and potential as a player. All of this has led to some belief that he could fall out of the top 10 altogether.  Perhaps this chatter is simply a smokescreen put out by teams hoping to diminish his value and land him at a lower spot. If not, I believe scouts are missing out on one of the few true stars available in this draft. Sure, you would like to see the former five-star recruit play with fanatical effort on every play, but this can be corrected by a coach or team culture that demands more from players between the lines.  From a stylistic standpoint, Thibodeaux is an explosive speed rusher with A+ first-step quickness and snap-count anticipation. He pounces off the ball like a cat and displays a great feel for utilizing counter maneuvers when stymied at the line of scrimmage. Although his technique needs some refinement, Thibodeaux possesses a superpower (speed/quickness) that will make him a headache to deal with at the line of scrimmage.  Overall, Thibodeaux is a dynamic player with blue-chip qualities that are hard to find in pass rushers. He complements his natural gifts with a high IQ that is rarely discussed in his evaluation. If I am a team looking for "smart, fast and tough," the Oregon standout holds prime real estate on my draft board. I find it very hard to believe everyone picking in the top 10 will allow the aforementioned criticisms to tarnish his potential as a game wrecker at the NFL level. Final answer: No.) (4-16-22):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2022-nfl-draft-7-mysteries-of-round-1-solved

NFL Executive: Dan Campbell 'Isn't a Fan' of Kayvon Thibodeaux (4-15-22):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/nfl/lions/news/dan-campbell-not-fan-of-kayvon-thibodeaux

Monson: 2022 NFL Draft edge defender rankings (2. KAYVON THIBODEAUX, OREGON:  You don’t have to go back very far to find the time when Thibodeaux was the presumptive No. 1 overall pick, but he seems to have been the subject of a negativity campaign since that point, dropping him below multiple other prospects on many draft boards. He’s still the most naturally twitched-up pass-rusher among the top prospects and has elite college production. Thibodeaux recorded a 91.5 PFF pass-rushing grade this past season, a figure that got even better against true pass sets. He’s also performed consistently better against the run than he is being given credit for. While the attitude complaints swirl, I’ll stick to the on-field dominance and happily take him within the top-five picks.) (4-15-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2022-nfl-draft-edge-defender-rankings-monson

Lions draft picks: Ranking 5 best combinations for Detroit's two Round 1 selections (Combination 4 - No. 2: Kayvon Thibodeaux, Edge, Oregon.  No. 32: Daxton Hill, S, Michigan.  Kayvon Thibodeaux, for all the talk about his final season with the Ducks, feels like the type of pick people are overthinking. He'll instantly make someone's defensive line better, and the Lions have a defensive line that needs to be better. If the Jaguars land on Hutchinson or Walker, Thibodeaux would be a great pick for a defense that desperately needs some athleticism up front.  On the back end, Daxton Hill is rounding out a very good career with the Wolverines. He has the ranginess and versatility you want from an early round safety, and he's immensely talented in nickel coverage. Defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn made his bones as the secondary coach of the Saints, and Hill would be a great project for him.) (4-14-22):  https://www.sportingnews.com/au/nfl/news/lions-draft-picks-ranking-5-combinations-detroit-round-1/acyxxrteujobzjszgqt33ymk


2022 NFL Draft: Malik Willis tops players with star potential (5. KAYVON THIBODEAUX, EDGE, OREGON:  The former No. 1 recruit in the country is a legitimate five-star talent off the edge, with exceptional first-step quickness and acceleration setting the foundation for his pass-rush game. Thibodeaux also has the capacity to turn speed into power, utilizing a long-arm move to walk defenders back into the quarterback’s lap.   Considering his take-over the-game potential as a spectacular speed-rush specialist, Thibodeaux could reach all-star status immediately in a scheme that allows him to attack the quarterback from a wide alignment and a three-point track stance.) (4-14-22):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2022-nfl-draft-malik-willis-tops-players-with-star-potential

NFL Mock Draft Stock Watch: Which players are rising and falling in experts' eyes in 2022? (The first round draft picks who've seen a slight bump in the right direction (5) - Thibodeaux was weirdly doubted despite a very good Combine but appears to have re-established himself as a top five pick in the running to go second overall.) (4-14-22):  https://ftw.usatoday.com/lists/nfl-mock-draft-stock-watch-players-rising-falling

Projecting Kayvon Thibodeaux's draft range | 'Path to the Draft' (4-14-22):  https://www.nfl.com/videos/projecting-kayvon-thibodeaux-s-draft-range-path-to-the-draft

Charles Davis: 13 draft prospects I'd pound table for (Kayvon Thibodeaux - Oregon · Edge:  From a pure pass-rushing perspective off the edge, Thibodeaux is at the top of this year's class. His athleticism is unquestioned. He battled back from injury last year to help his team. There's been a lot of discussion about whether he plays hard on every snap. I asked current and former general managers for some guys who entered the league with similar questions about their motor and then went on to be successful. Two of the most accomplished players in the responses I received: Myles Garrett and Bruce Smith. I believe Thibodeaux will put those questions to rest, just like Garrett and Smith did. ) (4-13-22):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2022-nfl-draft-13-prospects-charles-davis-would-pound-the-table-for

2022 NFL draft: The top 12 edge defenders (2.  Kayvon Thibodeaux, Oregon (Height: 6’4″ (56th) Weight: 254 (20th), 40-Yard Dash: 4.58 seconds (93rd), 10-Yard Split: 1.59 seconds (87th), Bench Press: 27 reps (78th), Wingspan: 79 1/2 inches (35th), Arm Length: 33 1/8 inches (34th), Hand Size: 9 3/4 inches (39nd)) - Bio: “I don’t think I need to convince teams of it, but that’s the media narrative. There always has to be some narrative that’s drawn. For me, I’m an L.A. kid, and if you know the adversity I went through to get here, and the things that I had to sacrifice, and the things my mother had to sacrifice for me to be here, you’d really understand how I feel in my heart. When you talk about fire, when you talk about passion, I think you can’t really explain it. I get emotional thinking about it, because all the sacrifices it took for me to get here, I wouldn’t have made those sacrifices if I didn’t love the game. I’m blessed to be here, and I’m just happy that these teams want to talk to me, and they want to get to know me.”  That’s what Kayvon Thibodeaux said at the scouting combine when asked how he was going to convince NFL teams that he actually loves the game of football. A weird thing for a guy with as much great tape as he has, but Thibodeaux has been bucking a landslide media narrative that he doesn’t, and when that train leaves, it generally doesn’t stop until after the draft is over.  As to the facts: Thibodeaux grew up in South Central Los Angeles with his mother, and attended three different high schools. His final stop was Oaks Christian in Westlake Village, where he played under head coach and former NFL assistant coach Charles Collins, and former NFL defensive lineman Greg Townsend, the team’s defensive line coach. The five-star recruit could have chosen any major college, but chose Oregon in part because the school understood that he had “interests outside of football.” (Gasp!)  He was the Pac-12 Freshman Defensive Player of the Year in 2019, won the Morris Trophy as the conference’s top defensive lineman in 2020, and made Unanimous All-American and First-Team All-Pac 12 in 2021. Thibodeaux led the Ducks in sacks and tackles for loss in each of his three seasons.  Stat to Know: Over those three seasons, Thibodeaux had 115 total pressures… on just 812 pass-rushing snaps. He also allowed 10 receptions on 13 targets for 76 yards, 56 yards after the catch, two pass deflections, and an opponent passer rating of 90.5.  Strengths: So, let’s talk about Thibodeaux’s alleged effort issues. This sack against Washington State has him starting off inside the left tackle, and riding all the way to the other side of the formation before closing to the quarterback. I’m reminded of Yannick Ngakoue, one of the better effort pressure ends of his era.  If this is goldbricking, sign me up.  Thibodeaux’s positional versatility extends beyond his ability to move to either shoulder of a tackle — here, he’s off-ball until late in the pre-snap phase, then he lurks up to blitz, demolishes the right guard, and this play is over.  This play against Oregon State… I mean, where does this effort crap come from? This shows Thibodeaux mugging the play-side tight end to eliminate the quarterback’s quick read, which forces the quarterback to extend the play outside the pocket, a process that Thibodeaux then shuts down by moving off the tight end to the quarterback himself.  Weaknesses: Thibodeaux is not yet evolved enough with his hand technique to disengage from blockers in that way, which shows up when he’s engaging but not really getting anywhere. With his athletic attributes, he should be able to rip away from his opponent and go pure aggro in the backfield. He’s also not a natural bender around the edge, so if you’re really into that, he might not be your guy.  Conclusion: When evaluating players, you have to understand the difference between effort and impact. There are players who make things look easier than they should be, and there are players who aren’t always utilized in all the ways that could make them special. It’s my belief that Thibodeaux suffers from both issues. He’s such an amazing raw athlete, we wind up expecting more of him at times than he may be capable of, given his current techniques and limitations. Is Thibodeaux’s impact muted at times when it shouldn’t be? Yes, but I do not see a consistent effort problem that would drop him down my rankings. I see a player who is not a traditional edge defender, and may be capable of much more in a different structure.  NFL Comparison: Julian Peterson. This is a bit of a stretch, but I don’t get the frequent comparisons between Thibodeaux and Jadeveon Clowney. Perhaps those were amplified when Thibodeaux called himself “Jadeveon 2.0” at the combine. Instead, I’d like to see Thibodeaux’s NFL team try him a role like Julian Peterson’s. Peterson was ahead of his time with his positional versatility — selected with the 16th pick in the 2000 draft by the 49ers, Peterson could line up everywhere from end to box to slot to safety at 6-foot-3 at 245 pounds. Thibodeaux’s movement skills in space and overall athleticism had me thinking that he could excel in a Peterson-style role, which the NFL is far more adept with than it was in Peterson’s era.) (4-13-22):  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/2022-nfl-draft-pass-rushers-jermaine-johnson-aidan-hutchinson-kayvon-thibodeaux/

Why Kayvon Thibodeaux is the best fit at No. 2 for the Detroit Lions (4-13-22):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/4/13/23020270/2022-sb-nation-nfl-mock-draft-detroit-lions-kayvon-thibodeaux

Is DL Kayvon Thibodeaux NFL's Next Jadeveon Clowney? (4-13-22):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/nfl/lions/news/is-kayvon-thibodeaux-next-jadeveon-clowney

Treash: A look at the former five-star recruits in the 2022 NFL Draft (EDGE KAYVON THIBODEAUX, OREGON DUCKS (247 Composite Rating: 2nd, Draft Projection: Top 5):  Thibodeaux has lived up to the lofty expectations placed on him as one of the highest-ranked recruits of the 2019 cycle. He may not be the most refined pass-rusher in the 2022 draft class, but that didn’t stop the 6-foot-4, 251-pounder from earning a 91.5 pass-rush grade last season — and that’s including the games in which the opposing offense schemed away from him.  Thibodeaux boasts all the tools NFL teams desire on the edge and showed improvement throughout his college career. If he can continue on that path of refinement, he can reach NFL All-Pro status.) (4-13-22):   https://www.pff.com/news/draft-breaking-down-former-five-star-recruits-2022-nfl-draft

Kayvon Thibodeaux Will Meet with Detroit Lions Tuesday (4-11-22):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/nfl/lions/news/thibodeaux-official-visit-details-revealed

Lions draft: Pros and cons of all the candidates for the No. 2 overall pick (Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon - Thibodeaux was often projected as the No. 1 overall pick before the 2021 college season. An early injury and some questions about his play have impacted his status for some, but he’s still a worthy candidate for the Lions at No. 2. Detroit has spent a great deal of time doing its homework on the 6-foot-4, 254-pound Ducks standout.  Pros:  High-end physical traits: speed, length, burst, power.  Excellent finisher once he gets close to the ball.  Jolting power off the snap, can throttle tight ends and push back tackles.  Excellent at working coordinated rushes and gimmicks (stunts, loops, twists) with teammates.  Good open-field movement skills when dropping in coverage.  Has an edge to his play when challenged.  Can anchor vs. the run and set a hard edge with lower-body strength.  Cons:  Often rushes without a real plan; wins by just being a better athlete than the guy blocking him.  Shows some tightness in his hips and ankles when at full speed.  Doesn’t always anticipate the play pre-snap or what the blocking will do very well.  Fails to use his hands well or naturally to shed blocks.  Most of his production came in bunches against weaker individual opponents, has some long stretches of not impacting several games.  His personality and desire have come into question, right or wrong, and his reaction to it has proven awkward.  Projects better as a stand-up rush OLB than a 4-man front DE, which is what the Lions will play) (4-10-22):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/lists/lions-2022-nfl-draft-options-for-2nd-pick-scouting-reports/

Should the Detroit Lions draft Kayvon Thibodeaux in 2022 NFL Draft? (4-8-22):  https://www.nbcsports.com/video/should-detroit-lions-draft-kayvon-thibodeaux-2022-nfl-draft

Brooks: Five most difficult draft prospects to evaluate (Kayvon Thibodeaux (Oregon · Edge):  It is hard to ignore the rare gifts displayed by the former five-star recruit during his time at Oregon. Thibodeaux is a disruptive force off the edge, with his exceptional first-step quickness and snap-count anticipation creating problems for offensive tackles. The 6-foot-4, 254-pounder burst onto the scene with a nine-sack freshman campaign. And he continued to tease evaluators with his natural skills as an explosive speed rusher with cat-like quickness and acceleration.  Despite possessing the raw tools to be a dominant edge rusher in the league for the next decade, Thibodeaux has faced persistent questions about his motor and love of the game. Evaluators have suggested that his film features too many "loafs" and low-effort plays for an elite player, and some wonder if his burgeoning off-field endeavors have impacted his focus on the game.  While it is not uncommon for prized prospects to show some complacency or caution in their final college seasons, the questions surrounding Thibodeaux's effort and energy have overshadowed a game that could pop in the NFL.) (4-8-22):  https://www.nfl.com/news/five-most-difficult-2022-nfl-draft-prospects-to-evaluate-three-quarterbacks-in-m

2022 NFL Draft: Breaking down the top 3 EDGE options for the Detroit Lions (4-9-22):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/4/8/23013621/2022-nfl-draft-edge-debate-kayvon-thibodeaux-aidan-hutchinson-travon-walker-podcast

2022 NFL Draft: Pro comparisons and analytical team fits for top edge prospects (DE Kayvon Thibodeaux (PRO COMPARISON: Josh Allen, Jacksonville Jaguars):  The way I do comps is by rating traits and comparing them to current NFL players, a process which yields several matches. Pre-draft chatter has produced a wide range of NFL forecasts for Thibodeaux, and his comps support this. There are shades of Khalil Mack, as well as just as much Vic Beasley. From a body perspective, his traits fall in the ranges of ideal -- i.e., the ones that are most correlated with success. And his Computer Vision-measured game speed and change-of-direction quickness also fall into this sweet spot. His 2021 pass-rush win rate of 22.9 percent, per PFF, ranked sixth-best among all Power Five players with 200-plus pass rushes. The red flag here is his inconsistency from snap to snap, as he seems to overly rely on his natural physical gifts. (Computer Vision shows this most on non-zone run plays.)  TEAM FIT: Seattle Seahawks. While it would be great for Thibodeaux to pair with a team that has more overall certainty (fewer glaring needs), he forecasts to contribute at a level where his individual impact is great enough to merit this match. But ... As of today, the chances of Thibodeaux being available at Pick No. 9, according to my model: 14 percent. So this might be wishful thinking.) (4-7-22):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2022-nfl-draft-pro-comparisons-and-analytical-team-fits-for-top-edge-prospects

Dan Campbell explains why the Lions are doing so much work on Kayvon Thibodeaux: ‘He’s pretty special’ (4-7-22):  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/04/dan-campbell-explains-why-the-lions-are-doing-so-much-work-on-kayvon-thibodeaux-hes-pretty-special.html

Dan Campbell on Kayvon Thibodeaux: 'He’s Pretty Special on Tape' (4-7-22):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/nfl/lions/news/dan-campbell-discusses-kayvon-thibodeaux-ahead-of-draft

Dan Campbell explains why Lions have done so much research on Kayvon Thibodeaux (4-7-22):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/4/7/23015163/dan-campbell-explains-thorough-research-kayvon-thibodeaux-detroit-lions-nfl-draft

2022 NFL Draft preview: 5 edge rushers that could interest the Lions (3. Kayvon Thibodeaux, Oregon (6-4, 254. 4.58 40-yard dash.):  There may be some question marks about his motor, but there are no questions about his athleticism and speed coming off the edge. Thibodeaux has raw athletic traits that made him a terrific pass rusher at Oregon, and someone who could set the edge well in the run game. He doesn't have as many pro-ready pass-rush moves as Hutchinson, but those will come with NFL coaching. He has a high ceiling.) (4-7-22):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/2022-nfl-draft-preview-5-edge-rushers-lions-hutchinson-johnson-thibodeaux

Lions to host Oregon’s Kayvon Thibodeaux for an NFL Draft top-30 visit (4-6-22):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/4/6/23013618/detroit-lions-hosting-kayvon-thibodeaux-top-30-visit-nfl-draft-2022

Oregon pass rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux visiting Lions, Jets, Giants, Texans, others (4-5-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/oregon-pass-rusher-kayvon-thibodeaux-visiting-lions-jets-giants-texans-others/


'Just Watch the Whole Tape': Kayvon Thibodeaux Confident He's Best Draft Prospect (4-4-22):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/kayvon-thibodeaux-believes-he-is-best-draft-prospect


Five prospects who could go No. 1 in 2022 NFL Draft; plus, Kyle Hamilton's 40 and Todd Bowles' second try (Thibodeaux - The highly celebrated five-star recruit lived up to the hype as a disruptive force for the Ducks. Thibodeaux dazzles evaluators with explosive first-step quickness and outstanding snap-count anticipation. The 6-4, 254-pounder pounces off the ball like a cat and utilizes a variety of speed-rush maneuvers to blow past blockers on the way to the quarterback. Although he has never registered double-digit sacks in a single season, he finished his Oregon career with 19 sacks, 35.5 tackles for loss and three forced fumbles in 32 games. Critics will suggest that Thibodeaux’s superior athleticism and tools should have led to even more production, pointing to his inconsistent motor and questionable focus as reasons he didn’t take over more games. That said, it is hard to handle elite quickness off the edge, and Thibodeaux’s natural skills as a speed rusher could make him a high-impact pro from Day 1.) (4-1-22):  https://www.nfl.com/news/five-prospects-who-could-go-no-1-in-2022-nfl-draft-plus-kyle-hamilton-s-40-and-t

Kayvon Thibodeaux takes center stage at Oregon Ducks Pro Day as 3 NFL general managers with top 10 picks attend (4-1-22):  https://www.oregonlive.com/ducks/2022/04/three-nfl-general-managers-with-top-10-picks-attend-oregon-ducks-pro-day-to-watch-kayvon-thibodeaux.html

Defensive end Kayvon Thibodeaux recaps his performance from the Oregon Ducks' pro day ahead of the 2022 NFL Draft (4-1-22):  https://www.nfl.com/videos/kayvon-thibodeaux-recaps-his-oregon-pro-day

The Detroit Lions sent a huge contingent to Oregon's pro day to watch Kayvon Thibodeaux (4-1-22):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2022/04/01/detroit-lions-oregon-ducks-pro-day-kayvon-thibodeaux-potential-draft-prospect-verone-mckinley/

Lions Reportedly Send Seven Staffers to Oregon Pro Day (4-1-22):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-send-seven-staffers-to-oregon-pro-day

Lions send 7 reps, including GM Brad Holmes, to Kayvon Thibodeaux’s Oregon pro day (4-1-22):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/4/1/23006045/detroit-lions-gm-brad-holmes-kayvon-thibodeaux-oregon-pro-day

Oregon Pro Day 2022: Date, prospects, rumors, and more (Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE:  Most of the talk surrounding Thibodeaux this offseason actually hasn’t been related to his on-field talent. Instead, questions surrounding character and effort have stunted the Oregon product’s stock. Thibodeaux’s still widely regarded as one of the best overall prospects in the 2022 NFL Draft. But the rumors give his stock an underlying element of uncertainty.  What’s not in question, however, is Thibodeaux’s physical ability. The former Pac-12 Freshman of the Year measured in at 6’4″, 254 pounds at the NFL Combine, with 33 1/8″ arms. He also ran a 4.58 40-yard dash and logged 27 bench reps. His numbers already mirror his freaky athleticism on film. And if he does a full workout at the 2022 Oregon Pro Day, he could draw attention to that — over unsubstantiated off-field whispers.) (4-1-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/oregon-pro-day-2022-date-prospects-rumors-more/

Aidan Hutchinson vs. Kayvon Thibodeaux: Who is EDGE1 in the 2022 NFL Draft? (4-1-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/aidan-hutchinson-vs-kayvon-thibodeaux-who-is-edge1-in-2022-nfl-draft/

Could the Detroit Lions really draft a safety with a top-2 pick? ‘We’re looking for game-changers’ (Kayvon Thibodeaux is perhaps the highest-upside pass rusher in this draft, but there are concerns about his motor and fit for Dan Campbell.) (3-31-22):  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/03/could-the-detroit-lions-really-become-the-first-team-ever-to-use-a-top-2-nfl-draft-pick-on-a-safety.html

2022 NFL Draft: Biggest weaknesses for top 10 prospects (Oregon EDGE Kayvon Thibodeaux (Biggest weakness: Effectiveness in his hands):  Thibodeaux is a rare cat. He looked like a future top 10 pick as an 18-year-old freshman in 2019. Seriously. Unreal talent. And who of all people understands how athletic Thibodeaux is? Thibodeaux himself, right? It led him to leaning heavily on his burst, bend, and closing speed more so than any other rushers I've scouted since Myles Garrett. Yes, more than Chase Young.  All that leads me to is this -- Thibodeaux's hand work has to get better. He flashes a pass-rushing move on occasion. It's not as if he has no plan at the snap. But when you're as overwhelmingly athletic even against top-tier talent in college, you simply don't have to be a fundamentally sound technician. In the NFL, you have to be.  Thibodeaux isn't quite Garrett athletically -- and he's about 20 pounds lighter -- so the advantage he had in college on the physical front won't be as staggering as it was in the Pac-12. That's when the calculated pass-rush maneuvers need to be deployed.) (3-31-22):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2022-nfl-draft-biggest-weaknesses-for-aidan-hutchinson-kyle-hamilton-and-the-consensus-top-10-prospects/

4-Down Territory: Thibodeaux's 'want-to,' free-agent fits, potential signings, overtime changes (The ridiculous Kayvon Thibodeaux narrative.  Every pre-draft process has one player whose effort and love of the game is questioned. Unless it’s a quarterback, and then, you get the intelligence thing. Usually, it’s a Black quarterback, as it unfortunately was with Lamar Jackson and Justin Fields. This season, the punching bag appears to be Oregon edge-rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux, who finds himself the subject of a flurry of questions regarding his on-field intensity and effort. Based on your analysis, is there anything to it in Thibodeaux’s case, or is this yet another example of groupthink gone wrong?   Doug: I’ve gone back and watched a ton of Thibodeaux’s tape in the last week with this particular narrative in mind, and I have yet to see a sustained number of snaps in any game where I think to myself, “Yeah, he’s out there goldbricking.” I think there are times when he gets locked up against blocks because he doesn’t yet know how to use his hands to defeat them, which is fairly common among collegiate edge-rushers. There are reasons most of those guys take a year to get their bearings in the NFL, and the same might be true of him. But I’ve seen him lock up tight ends on coverage and then speed to pressure the quarterback. I’ve seen him start off-ball and blast through the line to pressure on a blitz. He’s doing his best out there.   The difference? I went back and watched the tape. I think the analysts who are parroting the concerns about Thibodeaux are doing just that – parroting. One guy in a front office says something to a reporter, and everybody just rolls with it. They’re not doing their own work. They’re not coming to their own conclusions. They’re just repeating what they’ve heard or read elsewhere, and hoping for equivalent views and clicks. This is not analysis at all.   Luke: This is the same garbage take we heard a few years back about Myles Garrett, Doug. I spent a day with him out in Houston leading up to that draft, and we barely talked about football. We talked about dinosaurs, music, BBQ, played some soccer. The guy clearly has tons of interests outside of the game, and that obviously hasn’t stopped him from becoming a dominant player in the NFL.  I think the same thing is happening here with Thibodeaux, where a top prospect is vocal about their passions and interests outside of the game, and there are probably still too many people (one is too many) in the league who think that players (especially the best ones) can’t be successful unless they love football more than anything and everything else in their life. That’s just not the case, and I hope players like Garrett and Thibodeaux continue to wreck that ridiculous narrative.(3-29-22):  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/nfl-overtime-rules-free-agency-nfl-draft/

TWENTYMAN: 5 pro days to watch this week (Who to watch: Kayvon Thibodeaux opted not to test beyond the 40-yard dash (4.58) and the bench press (27 reps) at the Combine, so some of the other testing numbers and on-field drills will be important for him. How position versatile is he?) (3-27-22):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/twentyman-5-pro-days-to-watch-this-week-neal-thibodeaux-johnson

Meet the Prospect: Kayvon Thibodeaux (3-25-22):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/meet-the-prospect-kayvon-thibodeaux

Comparing top 2022 prospects to former draft busts (Oregon EDGE Kayvon Thibodeaux (Bust: Barkevious Mingo.  Pick and year: No. 6 overall, 2013 draft (Browns).  College: LSU.):  Now, when it comes to hype as a recruit, Thibodeaux, of course, trumps Mingo. On the field, the two have similarities. Like Thibodeaux, the former LSU star was more burst/bend than pass-rush move master during his time in the SEC. His lack of developed plans en route to the quarterback didn't matter much, though, as he registered 15 sacks and 29 tackles for loss in his three seasons for the Tigers.  He ultimately flopped in the NFL because he simply was never strong enough at the point of attack, and those pass-rush moves...they never materialized. If Thibodeaux busts, it'll likely be due to him leaning too much on his athletic gifts and not playing with enough power consistently.) (3-24-22):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2022-nfl-draft-comparing-the-consensus-top-prospects-in-this-class-to-former-infamous-draft-busts/

Mel Kiper calls Kyle Hamilton safer than Kayvon Thibodeaux for Lions; keeps Aidan Hutchinson at No. 1 (3-23-22):  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/03/mel-kiper-calls-kyle-hamilton-safer-than-kayvon-thibodeaux-for-lions-keeps-aidan-hutchinson-at-no-1.html

Draft experts weigh in: Who should the Detroit Lions select with the No. 2 pick? (3-12-22):  https://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/38412/draft-experts-weigh-in-who-should-the-detroit-lions-select-with-the-no-2-pick

Ranking Lions Options If Aidan Hutchinson Is Top Overall Pick (3. Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon:  Once the top prospect in the 2019 recruiting class, Thibodeaux enjoyed a solid career at Oregon and is still highly thought of when it comes to his pro potential. However, his stock has fallen a little due to questions about his overall durability.  He’s still believed to be a very good player, but more recent prospects have leapt him in terms of the top-3 conversation. Should Hutchinson go off the board, it will simply be a discussion of who the Lions like more when it comes to defensive options.) (3-9-22):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/ranking-draft-prospects-lions-if-hutchinson-top-selection

NFL Combine winners and losers: Malik Willis, Jordan Davis impress ahead of 2022 NFL Draft (Winner: Kayvan Thibodeaux-Aidan Hutchinson debate:  Thibodeaux (6-4, 254) is another player with a case to be the No. 1 pick in this year’s draft. It's an interesting debate with Michigan defensive end Aidan Hutchinson, and Thibodeaux popped with a 4.58 in the 40-yard dash and 27 in the bench press. Hutchinson (6-7, 260) ran a 4.74 and had the best time in the 20-yard shuttle among defensive ends at 4.15.  This conversation will continue into April. ) (3-7-22):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-combine-winners-losers-2022-draft/gw36f22v50vucmqdiaautc2w

10 2022 NFL Draft Crushes (Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon:  Before I break this down, I would like to acknowledge the fact that Detroit can only have one of the top two EDGE prospects. The reason both are on here is that you can’t go wrong with either.  Thibodeaux was the top prospect in the 2019 high school recruiting class, according to several top recruiting experts. Because of this, there may be some fatigue when it comes to his status as a top draft prospect. Yet, the numbers still don’t lie.  When healthy, he was unblockable at Oregon. He totaled 19 sacks in 30 total college games, including seven in 10 games in 2021. His blend of athleticism and size may be even better than Hutchinson's, as he flies to the ball.  It really is a toss-up between the two EDGE prospects, and in my opinion, there is no bad choice.) (3-6-22):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/ten-2022-nfl-draft-crushes#gid=ci029b7942d0002436&pid=usatsi_17600906_168388382_lowres

Roundtable: What Lions Can Learn from 2022 Combine (4. Kyle Hamilton playing alongside Marcus Williams sounds really intriguing. Would you have a problem with Kyle Hamilton being selected at No. 2 overall?  Chirco: I would, because the Lions are going to have the chance to pick at least one of the two following EDGE defenders at No. 2 overall: Michigan's Aidan Hutchinson or Oregon's Kayvon Thibodeaux. Both are potentially game-changing pass rushers, and the Lions have been beyond anemic from a pass-rushing standpoint for years now. So, there's no way I'd be taking Hamilton over either Hutchinson or Thibodeaux.) (3-6-22):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/nfl/lions/news/roundtable-what-lions-can-learn-from-2022-combine

NFL Combine results: 12 standouts from the edge rusher group (Kayvon Thibodeaux, Oregon, 6-foot-4, 254 (4.58/1.59 (40/10), 27 bench reps (1st in group)):  Thibodeaux started the day by putting up a group-leading 27 reps on the bench press, moved to the 40-yard dash, ran fast, then shut it down for the day. He told two members of the NFL Network broadcast team that his plan was to participate in both edge and linebacker drills, but with them being spread so far apart at the Combine, he elected to only do them at his Pro Day.  It’s a perfectly reasonable explanation, but rumors surrounding his work ethic have been swirling for some time now, and they are unlikely to go away after his decision in Indianapolis. As Daniel Jeremiah eluded to on the broadcast, it’s not a great look when you tell teams you’re planning on participating, the opportunity to run both edge and linebacker drills is there, yet you opt not to take part. Is it the end of the world? Of course not, and him skipping drills will likely soon be forgotten. But he will have to explain his decision to teams, making it another huddle for him to clear.) (3-6-22):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/3/6/22963042/nfl-combine-results-12-standouts-edge-rusher-group-travon-walker


What’s being said nationally after big Georgia DL Jordan Davis has all-time showing at NFL combine (Aidan Hutchinson and Kayvon Thibodeaux, two of the top possible Lions targets, had solid showings to open the weekend. Thibodeaux ran a 4.58-second 40-yard dash, then an elite 1.59-second in the 10-second split. His 27 bench-press reps were the most at his position. The edge defender then called it a night early. Hutchinson hit 4.74 seconds in the 40-yard dash and delivered a 36-inch vertical. He’s an elite athlete in his own right.) (3-5-22):  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/03/whats-being-said-nationally-after-big-georgia-dl-jordan-davis-has-all-time-showing-at-nfl-combine.html

Oregon’s Kayvon Thibodeaux, a possible Lions target, withdraws early from NFL combine (3-5-22):  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/03/oregon-pass-rusher-kayvon-thibodeaux-a-possible-lions-target-withdraws-early-from-nfl-combine.html

See how top DL prospects fared in 40-yard dash at NFL combine (Oregon’s Kayvon Thibodeaux ran a 4.58-second 40, sixth fastest among defensive ends, while Michigan’s Aidan Hutchinson ran a 4.74-second 40, 11th fastest in his position group.  Both players had identical 10-yard splits — the more important number for pass rushers —> unofficially of 1.62 seconds.  NFL Network reported that Thibodeaux, who tried to quell concerns about his effort in his media interview session Friday, opted out of position drills because of “how long the day was” with a break between linebacker and defensive line work. Thibodeaux plans to do position drills at linebacker and defensive line at Oregon’s pro day, the network reported.) (3-5-22):  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2022/03/05/how-top-dl-prospects-fared-40-yard-dash-nfl-combine/9396777002/

NFL Scouting Combine: Top highlights from Saturday's workouts (EDGE Kayvon Thibodeaux, Oregon:  Vying to be the No. 1 overall pick, Thibodeaux helped his case with the numbers he posted. Starting the day with 27 reps on the bench press of 225 pounds, Thibodeaux followed that up by showing off his speed and good first step with a 4.62 40 and 1.62 10-yard split. These numbers were better than Michigan’s Aidan Hutchinson, another prospect in contention to be the Jaguars’ selection.) (3-5-22):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/nfl-combine-highlights-day-3-saturday-jordan-davis-devonte-wyatt-quay-walker-aidan-hutchinson-kayvon-thibodeaux/

2022 NFL Combine Stock Report - Defensive Linemen (Down - Kayvon Thibodeaux, DE/OLB, Oregon:  Kayvon Thibodeaux, despite being completely healthy, refused to do the drills at the combine. Teams were already concerned about Thibodeaux's passion for football. He has a ton of competition in the top 10 from Aidan Hutchinson, David Ojabo and Travon Walker (and maybe even Jermaine Johnson), and his reluctance to work out during his job interview could cause him to drop below three or even four of his competitors.) (3-6-22):  https://walterfootball.com/combine2022stockDL.php

NFL Scouting Combine EDGE/DL measurements (EDGE/DL losers - Thibodeaux was one inch shorter and four pounds lighter than his pre-combine projections. While it probably won't impact anything, Hutchinson's height advantage could lead to him getting picked ahead of Thibodeaux in next month's draft. ) (3-5-22):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2022-nfl-scouting-combine-edgedl-measurements-hand-size-and-more-from-day-3-of-workouts/

NFL Draft Combine Rumors: Jaguars High on Stingley, Jameson Williams; Dislike Thibodeaux (Aside from Hutchinson, the other consensus top edge rusher in this draft class is Oregon's Kayvon Thibodeaux. Some of the Jaguars evaluators are very down on Thibodeaux and did not like the tape from his final season of Oregon. Adding to the Thibodeaux doubts are staff at other teams that are concerned about how much he loves football land the focus he has on "his brand.") (3-5-22):  https://walterfootball.com/nflhotpress/article/Jaguars-High-on-Stingley,-Jameson-Williams;-Dislike-Thibodeaux

TWENTYMAN: Combine Day 3 observations (The worm: Thibodeaux plans to put on a show when his name is called during the draft in Las Vegas and he heads to the stage for the customary hug with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. Thibodeaux said Friday he planned to do the worm on stage. Just one more thing to look forward to on draft night.) (3-4-22):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/twentyman-combine-day-3-observations-ojabo-hutchinson-thibodeaux


Lions' potential pick at No. 2 tries to dispel questions about work ethic (3-4-22):  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2022/03/04/kayvon-thibodeaux-oregon-detroit-lions-nfl-combine/9376297002/


2022 NFL Scouting Combine: Oregon EDGE Kayvon Thibodeaux answers the tough questions (3-4-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2022-nfl-scouting-combine-oregon-edge-kayvon-thibodeaux-answers-the-tough-questions

NFL draft: Oregon's Kayvon Thibodeaux isn't the top-five lock some might assume (3-4-22):  https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-draft-oregons-kayvon-thibodeaux-isnt-the-top-five-lock-some-might-assume-164710126.html

Hutchinson vs. Thibodeaux: Who's the top pass rusher in this draft? (3-4-22):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/hutchinson-vs-thibodeaux-who-s-the-top-pass-rusher-in-this-draft

Aidan Hutchinson vs. Kayvon Thibodeaux: Breaking down the possible No. 1 overall NFL Draft picks at 2022 Combine (3-4-22):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-combine-2022-aidan-hutchinson-kayvon-thibodeaux/tei3estv9upzlhwwsexaxykf

Don't question Kayvon Thibodeaux's love of the game (3-4-22):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2022/03/04/nfl-draft-kayvon-thibodeaux-love-football/

9 NFL Draft prospects the Lions should watch at the 2022 NFL Combine (Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon:  The top-rated player right now in PFN’s Mock Draft Simulator is anything but a slam dunk selection at this point. Early on in the process, it seemed the No. 1 selection was a one-man race for Kayvon Thibodeaux. However, that narrative has changed recently.  A number of other pass rushers are sought-after in this class, and an offensive tackle is in play for the Jaguars. Therefore, the Lions could find Thibodeaux falling into their laps at No. 2. There have been concerns raised around Thibodeaux, and for the teams picking in the top three, the way he interviews could actually be more important than his performance on the field in Indianapolis.) (3-3-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/9-nfl-draft-prospects-the-detroit-lions-should-watch-2022-nfl-combine/

Kayvon Thibodeaux’s Draft Stock: Concerns at NFL Combine around top-rated prospect? (3-3-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/sources-kayvon-thibodeaux-draft-stock-tumbling-down-2022-nfl-draft-boards/

Holmes: Kayvon Thibodeaux's 'a Good-Looking Prospect' (3-2-22):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/holmes-calls-kayvon-thibodeaux-a-good-looking-prospect

The 5 biggest names to watch at the 2022 NFL Scouting Combine (2.  Aiden Hutchinson, EDGE, Michigan and Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon:  Each of these players is in contention for the top overall pick. Thibodeaux (+900) was long considered a favorite to go No. 1 thanks to his Myles Garrett-style athleticism, but enthusiasm around him as cooled after a merely good, not great 2021 campaign. Hutchinson (+230) moved in the opposite direction. He blasted his way up from mid-draft pick to can’t-miss prospect after wreaking havoc in the Big Ten and serving as a pillar for a Michigan team that made it to its first College Football Playoff.  Hutchinson can confirm his rise in Indy. Thibodeaux can stop his slide before it flips from theoretical to actual.  For Hutchinson, the Combine will be a chance to showcase his strength and prove his first-step acceleration is quick enough to work against NFL offensive tackles. Thibodeaux will have to flash the athleticism that makes him so tantalizing while showcasing his ability to learn on the fly and refine his pass rushing technique in the pros. That last part is going to be pretty tough to do over a course of 30-minute interviews, so he may have to truly crush his workouts to eclipse Hutchinson and reclaim his place as the first defender off the board in 2022.) (3-2-22):  https://ftw.usatoday.com/lists/2022-nfl-scouting-combine-names-to-watch-malik-willis-aidan-hutchinson

2022 NFL combine: Detroit Lions in prime position to add elite talent to defensive edges (EDGE Kayvon Thibodeaux (Oregon): Kayvon Thibodeaux remains a legit option for Pick 2. Despite a lingering ankle issue last season, the talented pass rusher had 12 sacks and 46 pressures. The 6-foot-5, 250-pound pass rusher’s 17.8% pressure rate was second nationally. Thibodeaux ended his career with 35.5 sacks in three seasons. The junior was a five-star prospect and ESPN’s top-ranked recruit in 2019. He’s delivered through those high expectations every step of the way. There are some concerns with his consistency and refinement. But don’t get lost in some of those discussions under the microscope. The Ringer said Thibodeaux had shades of “Khalil Mack” or “t-rex in an F-14″ in his game.) (3-1-22):  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/03/2022-nfl-combine-detroit-lions-in-prime-position-to-add-elite-talent-to-defensive-edges.html

Combine participants to watch for this week in Indianapolis (Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon:  This past summer, doing a “way too early” mock draft was easy, at least with the first selection.  Put in Kayvon Thibodeaux, the pass rusher from Oregon, at the top spot and then worry about the other 31 selections.  However, the ground seems to have shifted under Thibodeaux over the past few months, and his status as the surefire first-overall selection is seriously in doubt. In the Top 50 just dropped by Daniel Jeremiah, the pass rusher now checks in at seven overall, and Jeremiah writes that his backside effort is “spotty” and that he lacks ideal flexibility.  A great week in Indianapolis is how Thibodeaux can change the narrative, and for my money, I think he does just that.) (3-1-22):  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/2022-nfl-draft-combine-david-ojabo-kenny-pickett-malik-willis-skylar-thompson/

2022 NFL Combine: Malik Willis, Aidan Hutchinson top ones to watch (Who is the best pass-rusher in the class: Aidan Hutchinson or Kayvon Thibodeaux?  The hottest debate centers on the top pass-rusher in the class: Michigan’s Hutchinson or Oregon's Thibodeaux. With the winner claiming not only the top spot at the position but also the No. 1 overall spot in the class, the four-day job interview in Indianapolis will have a huge impact on how the draft board shapes up over the next month or so.  Hutchinson heads to Indianapolis as the front-runner, based on his production and consistency on tape. He is a high-motor player with an assortment of pass-rush maneuvers that make him a nightmare to deal with off the edge. While some observers have attempted to paint the Michigan standout as simply a "try-hard guy" who wins exclusively on effort, Hutchinson is a five-star athlete with explosive traits who could surprise evaluators when the testing starts this weekend.  In interviews, he will need to convince evaluators that he is not a one-year wonder (14 sacks in 2021 after netting just 4.5 in his first three seasons) by explaining his surge in production and carefully outlining his pass-rushing plan on game days.  Thibodeaux is a little polarizing in the scouting community due to the hype that has not always been supported by his production. As a 6-foot-5, 258-pound pass-rushing specialist with outstanding first-step quickness and closing burst, Thibodeaux has the potential to take over games with his destructive skills. Despite failing to notch 10 or more sacks in any of his three seasons at Oregon, he has posted solid production (19 career sacks in three seasons) while flashing explosive speed and quickness off the edge.   Thibodeaux’s success as a speed rusher with a small menu of moves will lead to questions about his ability to develop a counter to win against elite blockers. But he might be able to persuade evaluators that he can win like Mariano Rivera as a dominant, "one-pitch" pitcher with an unbelievable heater.  How well Hutchinson and Thibodeaux perform on the big stage and behind the scenes will determine which edge defender takes the inside track in the race to be the top pass-rusher and No. 1 overall pick in the draft.) (2-28-22):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2022-nfl-combine-malik-willis-aidan-hutchinson-top-ones-to-watch

2022 NFL Draft: Answering combine's burning questions, including who will erupt and who needs a big workout (5. Who needs a huge combine the most to save/boost their draft stock?  Trapasso: "OK, (Oregon edge rusher Kayvon) Thibodeaux isn't at risk of plummeting on draft night. However, there's some questions about his maturity and intentions with his football career. Unfounded or not, it's impacting his stock. At the combine, Thibodeaux can shift the focus back to what's he capable on the field at the combine with a stellar workout.") (2-28-22):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2022-nfl-draft-answering-combines-burning-questions-including-who-will-erupt-and-who-needs-a-big-workout/

2022 NFL Pre-Combine Draft Scouting Notebook (I’m not going to have Oregon’s Kayvon Thibodeaux as a top-5 player in my final rankings. There is way too much of *insert poking stick “do something” meme* to his game tape. Thibodeaux’s positive flashes are outstanding and I do think he can be a 10-12 sack per season player as a 3-4 OLB. He reminds me of a bigger Jerry Hughes entering the draft.) (2-28-22):  https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3447/2022-NFL-Pre-Combine-Draft-Scouting-Notebook

2022 NFL Combine preview: 15 edge rushers the Lions should be watching (Kayvon Thibodeaux, Oregon, 6-foot-4, 255 (Suggested by John):   While it appears Hutchinson needs to prove his athleticism at the Combine, Thibodeaux has been showcasing his athletic talent for the past three seasons. If Thibodeaux participates in the Combine drills, he is expected to put on a show, and that may be enough to squash some of the recent negative rumors that have been swirling of late. One of the reasons I believe people have been so quick to dismiss Thibodeaux is because he hasn’t been in the spotlight recently. After skipping Oregon’s Bowl game, the last time we saw him on the field was December 3, nearly three months before he will take the field in Indianapolis. The Combine should help remind people of his talents.) (2-27-22):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/2/27/22952050/2022-nfl-combine-preview-15-edge-rushers-detroit-lions

5 things to watch: 2022 NFL Scouting Combine (2. Hutchinson vs. Thibodeaux - The Lions had the second worst pass-rush win rate in the NFL last season, and their 30 sacks were the third fewest in the NFL. They expect to get Romeo Okwara back from an Achilles injury, but they could certainly look to add an edge rusher or two in this draft cycle.  Michigan's Aidan Hutchinson and Oregon's Kayvon Thibodeaux are the consensus top two best edge rushers in the draft, and the two names most commonly mocked to Detroit at No. 2.  Hutchinson has the size and production to make him one of the top prospects in this draft. Thibodeaux is an explosive athlete with a really big upside. Who tests better this week? Who impresses the most in their interview with the Lions brass?) (2-27-22):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/5-things-to-watch-2022-nfl-scouting-combine-hutchinson-thibodeaux-hamilton

NFL Combine Primer: QB hand size in the spotlight (How will Aidan Hutchinson, Kayvon Thibodeaux compare?  Most projections today have Hutchinson being selected ahead of Thibodeaux and, overall, being the better prospect. I have Hutchinson just ahead of the Oregon star on my Big Board.   But -- and this is major -- if Thibodeaux tests noticeably better than Hutchinson, the race for EDGE1 will heat up considerably. And the comparison between the two at the combine will stretch further than the on-field workouts. Thibodeaux was listed at 6-foot-5 and 258 pounds. Hutchinson? 6-6 and 266. How close are they stature-wise? Who has longer arms? Will one drastically outperform the other in the bench press, which, is hardly the be all, end all of strength measurement but the best one the combine offers.   At this very moment, it feels like there's no way Thibodeaux could be picked ahead of Hutchinson. The combine has board-altering powers, and if Thibodeaux measures up to Hutchinson and then has a better workout, there will be a lot less clarity at the top of the edge rusher position. Conversely, if Hutchinson tests even close to Thibodeaux or better, it'll all but officially close the door on Thibodeaux being drafted ahead of him.) (2-25-22):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2022-nfl-combine-quarterback-hand-size-aidan-hutchinson-vs-kayvon-thibodeaux-the-biggest-storylines/

Brooks: Why Aidan Hutchinson has edge over Kayvon Thibodaeux ahead of 2022 combine (2-25-22):  https://www.nfl.com/videos/brooks-why-aidan-hutchinson-has-edge-over-kayvon-thibodaeux-ahead-of-2022-combin

Lions 2022 Combine Preview: EDGE Defenders (Aidan Hutchinson (Kayvon Thibodeaux (College: Oregon, Measurables: 6-foot-5, 258 lbs.):  Thibodeaux is an athletic freak, who is considered to potentially have the most untapped potential of any top prospect. He was the top player in the 2019 recruiting class, and had success at Oregon despite not having the sharpest technique.  Thibodeaux will likely test well at the combine, given his exceptional physical traits. However, some believe he may fall in the draft due to the rise of other prospects. With the combine, Thibodeaux has a chance to put that narrative to bed.) (2-22-22):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/combine-preview-eight-edge-defenders-lions-should-scout

2022 Combine preview: Edge rusher (2. Kayvon Thibodeaux, Oregon, 6-5, 258 - Thibodeaux might have the highest ceiling of all the edge rusher prospects because he's still a raw talent from a technical standpoint. He's a terrific athlete and is expected to test very well at the Combine. He's a plus run defender and wins on the pass rush with pure athleticism and power vs. having a refined set of pass-rush moves. He's long, strong and plays with a superior motor. Just imagine what he can be when NFL coaches work with him to refine the pass rush part of his game more.) (2-19-22):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/2022-combine-preview-edge-rusher-hutchinson-thibodeaux-johnson

Can DE Kayvon Thibodeaux Become 'Elite' with Detroit Lions? (2-15-22):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/can-kayvon-thibodeaux-become-elite-detroit-lions

2022 NFL Draft: Agree or disagree with the latest risers and fallers (NFL DRAFT FALLERS - EDGE KAYVON THIBODEAUX, OREGON DUCKS: DISAGREE.  Thibodeaux has steadily moved from being the likely No. 1 overall pick to barely a top-10 prospect. While Michigan’s Aidan Hutchinson deservingly won over scouts and is likely to be the top selection and first edge defender off the board come April, Thibodeaux shouldn’t slide any farther than second overall. Despite not being a polished player quite yet, the Oregon product still posted an elite 91.5 pass-rush grade for the 2021 season. And he did that while his outing against Colorado was a throwaway game, as the Buffs completely schemed around Thibodeaux, removing any kind of impact he could have had on the game.  He is Michelangelo's David of pass-rushers. The 6-foot-5, 258-pound edge defender has every trait that NFL teams want on the edge. Don’t overthink this one — Thibodeaux is a special prospect.) (2-9-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2022-nfl-draft-agree-disagree-risers-fallers

2022 NFL Draft: Pros and cons for PFF's top five edge defenders (2. KAYVON THIBODEAUX, OREGON DUCKS (PFF Big Board Rank: 2) - PROS:  Thibodeaux has an unreal first step. Players who get off that fast are usually 20 pounds lighter.  His frame is made to play edge in the NFL. He has broad shoulders and an ideal length.  The former Oregon standout is flexible and bendy around the edge. He is also great at cornering.  CONS:  His pass-rush plan is lacking. There are some reps where there's not even a move to speak of.  Sometimes, he can focus too intently on blockers and lose sight of ball carriers in the run game.  Thibodeaux's timing with his hands as a pass-rusher is very inconsistent.) (2-8-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-pros-and-cons-top-5-edge-defenders-2022-nfl-draft-aidan-hutchinson-kayvon-thibodeaux

Building a defensive package with the top 2022 NFL Draft prospects: Defensive Line (2-7-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2022-nfl-draft-defensive-package-defensive-line

2022 Senior Bowl Rumors: Friday (By the sounds of it, the Lions are not head over heels in love with Michigan edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson or Oregon edge rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux. Washington felt that way about Chase Young in 2020, yet he went No. 2 overall. The 2022 NFL Draft is a strong year for edge rushers, and the Lions could find other good ends available at their later picks.) (2-4-22):  https://walterfootball.com/nflhotpress/article/Senior-Bowl-2022-Rumors-Friday

Galina: Ranking the top edge defenders in the 2022 NFL Draft (2. KAYVON THIBODEAUX, OREGON DUCKS (“Everything you want in a rusher”):  One of the first aspects of Thibodeaux’s game you notice on tape is how different his usage and alignment are from some of the other top rushers. In Oregon’s 3-4 defense, Thibodeaux played outside linebacker with a defensive end inside of him. This put him further away, in actual distance, from offensive tackles.  Hutchinson and George Karlaftis, among others, lined up much tighter in their teams' 4-2 defenses. In fact, Hutchinson and Karlaftis kicked down inside when their teams did switch up to a 3-4. With Thibodeaux further away, it’s harder for him to affect the run game like those other two, but he can drop in coverage more regularly and is actually solid at that.  As a pass-rusher, he has everything you’d want as an athlete — but maybe not all the moves quite yet. Going back to the Myles Garrett reference from above, if Thibodeaux had that kind of athleticism, he would easily be the first overall pick. You could even make the argument that Garrett has become the best edge rusher in the league in spite of not being the best technical player still. Thibodeaux is close to that, but not close enough. The potential is there for him to be the best out of this group.  Projection: Top-5 to Top-10 Pick.) (2-3-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2022-nfl-draft-edge-defender-rankings-galina

Senior Bowl 2022 Rumors Tuesday (At the beginning of the 2021 season, Oregon edge rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux was considered a heavy favorite to be the No. 1 pick in the 2022 NFL Draft and first non-quarterback to be selected. While Thibodeaux still is projected as a top-10 pick, multiple NFL teams picking high in the first round are not in love with Thibodeaux and some think he is overrated.  "I watch Thibodeaux and I see Whitney Mercilus," said an area scout. "I do not see a Von Miller, Khalil Mack, Bosa brother, Myles Garrett, etc. I see an athletic tweener on the edge who beat some average college offensive tackles on occasion. I see a solid starter level guy who could have - like Whitney - a couple good seasons if whoever drafts him has a running mate to help Thibodeaux. I don't see a guy that will cause teams to change protection when going up against a good tackle like Trent Williams, Ronnie Stanley, Laremy Tunsil, Ryan Ramcyzk, and those guys. I don't know where the top-10 noise came from, other than he was a No. 1-ranked high schooler who had a solid college career. Jadeveon Clowney, for all his flaws, at least had arguably the greatest sophomore season in college football history before he shut it down as a junior - in large part because he was encouraged to by everyone, including some pro folks, because he was seen as by far the best player in the country. Thibodeaux is not close to that kind of size, speed, length, freak that Clowney was."  Some sources say they have question if Thibodeaux loves football, and they are worried that he is distracted with "his brand." Thibodeaux was injured in 2021, and they also see stiffness as an edge rusher. Thibodeaux still looks like a likely top-10 pick, but teams picking at the very top of the 2022 NFL Draft could end up passing on him despite all the franchises in the top five needing pass-rushing help.) (2-1-22):  https://walterfootball.com/nflhotpress/article/Senior-Bowl-2022-Rumors-Tuesday

Why Kiper likes Hutchinson and Thibodeaux as the top 2 picks in the draft (1-18-22):  https://www.espn.com/video/clip?id=33091645

2022 NFL draft: 5 edge defenders to watch for the Detroit Lions (Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon:  Kayvon Thibodeaux is right up there with Hutchinson in the discussion for the top-two picks. He’s a 6-foot-5, 250-pound athletically-gifted pass rusher with one of the highest ceilings in this year’s class. Thibodeaux has 35.5 sacks in three seasons, with 12 in only 10 games in 2021. He registered 46 pressures to go with those 12 sacks while playing through an ankle injury. Holmes caught one of Thibodeaux’s better games of the season in person too. The third-year sophomore rocked UCLA for nine tackles, two sacks while forcing and recovering a fumble with the general manager in the building.  “Although he isn’t in the same prospect tier as Myles Garrett, Chase Young or the Bosa brothers, Thibodeaux is a disruptive pass rusher due to his upfield burst and quick feet,” Dane Brugler of The Athletic wrote. “He is a strong run defender and should continue to improve as a pass rusher as his rush moves evolve. Thibodeaux reminds me of a stronger, longer version of Harold Landry.”) (1-14-22):  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/01/2022-nfl-draft-5-edge-defenders-to-watch-for-the-detroit-lions.html

Kayvon Thibodeaux claims 'stigmatism' of Alabama education led him to choose Oregon over Crimson Tide (1-13-22):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/ncaa-football/news/kayvon-thibodeaux-stigmatism-alabama-oregon/196g95dwc0w1h1dbxzu4wvqvea

2022 NFL Draft Position Rankings: Edge defenders (2. KAYVON THIBODEAUX, OREGON (BIG BOARD RANK: 2):  Thibodeaux is an explosive, long and bendy edge rusher who’s only just scratching the surface of what he could be. Thibodeaux has a 91.5 pass-rushing grade and 46 pressures this season, even with a limited set of pass-rush moves.l) (1-6-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-top-2022-nfl-draft-rankings-edge-defenders-aidan-hutchinson-kayvon-thibodeaux-george-karlaftis

Aidan Hutchinson vs. Kayvon Thibodeaux for the No. 1 pick: Pros, cons and comps for both pass-rushers (1-3-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/aidan-hutchinson-vs-kayvon-thibodeaux-for-the-no-1-pick-pros-cons-and-comps-for-both-pass-rushers

2022 NFL Draft Big Board: PFF's Top 100 Prospects (2. EDGE KAYVON THIBODEAUX, OREGON:  Thibodeaux is an explosive, long and bendy edge rusher who’s only just scratching the surface of what he could be. Thibodeaux has a 91.5 pass-rushing grade and 46 pressures this season, even with a limited set of pass-rush moves.) (12-27-21):   https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2022-nfl-draft-board-big-board


Ex-NFL scout warns teams about Oregon’s Kayvon Thibodeaux | What are his biggest concerns? (12-9-21):  https://www.nfldraftdiamonds.com/2021/12/kayvon-thibodeaux/

PFN’s All-American Football Team Honors for the 2021 college football season (Kayvon Thibodeaux made the third team) (12-9-21):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/all-american-football-team-honors-for-the-2021-college-football-season/

PFN’s All-Pac-12 Football Team Honors for the 2021 college football season (Pac-12 Defensive Lineman of the Year: Kayvon Thibodeaux, Oregon: Thibodeaux was also terrific, commanding double-teams at will. He finished second in the conference with 7 sacks despite missing time with an injury. But his impact on the game went much further than statistics. Thibodeaux impacted the game even before Saturdays, influencing offensive game plans from coordinators and coaches.   First-Team All-Pac-12 Defense - EDGE: Kayvon Thibodeaux, Oregon) (12-8-21):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/all-pac-12-football-team-honors-for-the-2021-college-football-season/

Oregon’s Kayvon Thibodeaux, potential top pick, declares for NFL draft with plans to skip bowl game (12-7-21):  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2021/12/oregons-kayvon-thibodeaux-potential-top-pick-declares-for-nfl-draft-with-plans-to-skip-bowl-game.html

Top DE prospect Kayvon Thibodeaux declares for NFL draft, will skip Oregon's bowl game (12-7-21):  https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-draft-prospect-kayvon-thibodeaux-declares-oregon-alamo-bowl-game-030425291.html

Oregon EDGE Kayvon Thibodeaux to declare for 2022 NFL draft (12-6-21):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2021/12/06/nfl-news-draft-kayvon-thibodeaux-oregon-declares/

‘The end of an era’: Oregon Ducks edge rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux indicates he could opt out of bowl game, be off to NFL Draft (The Oregon edge rusher, who had three tackles with a sack during the 38-10 loss to Utah Friday night at Allegiant Stadium, posted a series of photos to Instagram after the game including from his commitment to UO and one with the caption “The end of an era.”  A finalist for the Bednarik Award and Bronco Nagurski Trophy, both national defensive player of the year awards, Thibodeaux has 49 tackles with 12 for loss, including seven sacks, two forced fumbles and a pass breakup in 11 games this season.  He missed two-and-a-half games due to an ankle sprain, which limited him to 10 snaps against Arizona, and later served a one half suspension for a targeting foul from the week prior.) (12-5-21):  https://www.oregonlive.com/ducks/2021/12/the-end-of-an-era-oregon-ducks-edge-rusher-kayvon-thibodeaux-indicates-he-could-opt-out-of-bowl-game-be-off-to-nfl-draft.html

NFL Draft prospects 2022: Updated big board of top 100 players overall, position rankings (1. Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon (6-5, 258 pounds):  Thibodeaux is off the charts athletically in every aspect, an explosive pass rusher and agile pursuit man who covers a ton of ground. He also brings underrated power with the speed.) (12-2-21):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-draft-prospects-2022-player-rankings-big-board/15xmexshw7ywc1u9ijg32sjwhr

2022 NFL Draft Big Board: Top 50 prospect rankings at the end of the 2021 CFB regular season (1. Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon:  Although Aidan Hutchinson’s dominance for Michigan in The Game has helped propel him to the top of some draft boards, Kayvon Thibodeaux remains the top player on our 2022 NFL Draft Big Board. At present, we feel like the Oregon pass rusher still presents more athletic upside than the Michigan man. He’s an explosive athlete with ridiculously long arms and the ability to fly around the edge like a seeking missile.  It’s easy to look at this season, particularly statistically, and say that Thibodeaux hasn’t lived up to the hype. However, he’s tallied 11 tackles for loss and 6 sacks despite being limited by injury. The game against Oregon State showcased his destructive ability against the run that is often forgotten while fawning over his ability as a rusher.) (12-1-21):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2022-nfl-draft-big-board-top-50-prospects-w0/

Ask Kyle: What are the chances of Detroit using the first overall draft pick on Michigan’s Aidan Hutchinson? (Q: Do you think by April, Hutchinson will still be the pick at 1/1? Or do you think the recency bias and him being a local guy has propped him up? Not saying he won’t go top five but has he surpassed Thibodeaux? -- @Brady_Beedon.  A: He definitely has recency bias going for him after that three-sack takedown of Ohio State, not to mention his 15 pressures overall in that win, a record in the ProFootballFocus era. But I don’t think this is just that. Hutchinson was one of the best players in college football last year too, and would have likely been a first-round pick had he declared. Then he returned to Michigan, and cemented his place atop the draft by setting a school record for sacks and vaulting onto the very short list of Heisman Trophy contenders.  All of which makes him a logical candidate for 1.1, especially when you consider the rush-needy Lions have an iron grip on the pick.  I don’t know if Hutchinson will be the pick, because Kayvon Thibodeaux is a monster too. How the Hutchinson-Thibodeaux conversation unfolds over the next few months will be fascinating. Hutchinson is less athletic than Thibodeaux, so I suspect Thibodeaux will build some momentum coming out of the combine. But Hutchinson might be the better all-around player, especially against the run, which matters a lot to Dan Campbell. So do character and culture fit, and by all accounts, Hutchinson checks those boxes too.  I don’t have a good answer for you on Hutchinson-Thibodeaux, but that’s the short list for 1.1 right now. Either way, with no quarterbacks worthy of the top pick, it seems the Lions should have a couple good options from which to choose for their ailing pass rush.) (11-30-21):  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2021/11/ask-kyle-what-are-the-chances-of-detroit-using-the-first-overall-draft-pick-on-michigans-aidan-hutchinson.html

2022 NFL Draft Big Board: PFF's Top 100 Prospects (2. EDGE KAYVON THIBODEAUX, OREGON:  Thibodeaux is an explosive, long and bendy edge rusher who’s only just scratching the surface of what he could be. Thibodeaux has a 91.5 pass-rushing grade and 46 pressures this season, even with a limited set of pass-rush moves.) (11-29-21):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2022-nfl-draft-board-big-board

The 2021 College Football All-Pac 12 Team (Thibodeaux made the first team.  PAC-12 DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR - Edge Kayvon Thibodeaux, Oregon Ducks:  Thibodeaux was born to rush the passer. The 6-foot-5, 258-pound edge defender is a physical freak of nature and showed some refinement in his game as a true junior in 2021 to take his play to elite status.  Thibodeaux earned a 91.5 pass-rush grade in the regular season despite missing some time early due to injury. He was one of four Power Five edge defenders who posted a pass-rush win rate north of 30% on true pass-rush snaps (no screen pass, quick pass, play-action or RPO).  Thibodeaux’s dominance even forced teams to scheme away from him and remove any threat of him getting close to the quarterback when on the field, which shows the kind of impact he had on the Oregon defense.) (11-29-21):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-2021-all-pac-12-team-offensive-defensive-player-of-the-year-drake-london-usc-kayvon-thibodeaux-oregon

2022 NFL Draft: Here's the perfect Lions draft plan, and it's all about upside (Round 1 - Michigan EDGE Aidan Hutchinson:  No joke, I had a write-up done on Oregon edge rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux. And he'd be one hell of a get for Detroit. But perfect? Not exactly. As someone firmly believing the Lions should aim for upside above all else in this draft, he'd be sensible. But Thibodeaux isn't the only top-end prospect with massive upside.  Hutchinson was famously No. 2 on Bruce Feldman's "Freaks" list this summer. Athleticism. Check. He's listed at 6-foot-6 and 265 pounds. NFL size. Check. He's clearly powerful on film. Check. And the Michigan star has been tremendously productive. Check.  Hutchinson legitimately feels like the unicorn type of prospect who is both high ceiling and high floor. Even if he happens to never reach his max potential, the Lions will have a quality, three-down defensive end who occasionally moves the needle as a pass rusher.) (11-29-21):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2022-nfl-draft-heres-the-perfect-lions-draft-plan-and-its-all-about-upside/

Oregon Defensive Players of the Game vs. Oregon State (3. Kayvon Thibodeaux-Defensive End:  Thibodeaux’s last game in Autzen was another impressive performance. Like Dorlus, his ability to get pressure on the quarterback helped the Ducks defense force a couple overthrows from Chance Nolan.  Thibodeaux ended the night with five tackles, three of which were solo and he was credited with three quarterback hurries. The only area that he'll hope to improve from Saturday were some uncharacteristic neutral zone infraction penalties.  The junior is going to have to figure out a way to get more involved on Friday than he did last time the Utes and the Ducks faced off. Against the Utes the first time, Utah’s offensive line absolutely neutralized Thibodeaux with double teams and quick throws from Cameron Rising.):  https://www.si.com/college/oregon/football/oregon-defensive-players-of-the-game-vs-oregon-state

Week 13 College Football Players of the Week: A fitting finale to an amazing regular season (DE Kayvon Thibodeaux, Oregon:  Oregon notched its 10th win this weekend against Oregon State, and Kayvon Thibodeaux once again played a big role. Chance Nolan never felt comfortable all game thanks to the Ducks’ star defensive end. He finished with 5 tackles (1 for loss) and 3 quarterback hurries to lead the Oregon defense.) (11-28-21):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/week-13-college-football-players-of-the-week/

College Football Week 13: PFF’s Team of the Week and Player Awards (Thibodeaux made the team) (11-28-21):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-week-13-pffs-team-of-the-week-and-player-awards-2021

HC Mario Cristobal provides positive injury update after win over Beavers (As for Thibodeaux, the junior defensive end went down after providing pressure against Chance Nolan on second down and long. Thibodeaux left the field on his power and returned just one play later. Thibodeaux would remain in the game before being taken off the field for the final possession.) (11-27-21):  https://247sports.com/college/oregon/Article/HC-Mario-Cristobal-provides-positive-injury-updates-after-win-over-Beavers-176483081/

Kayvon Thibodeaux has left arm looked at, back in huddle (11-27-21):  https://mobile.twitter.com/JamesCrepea/status/1464736190280597508

Film Study: Can big-game Kayvon Thibodeaux take it up a notch? (11-18-21):  https://247sports.com/LongFormArticle/College-football-Oregon-vs-Utah-Kayvon-Thibodeaux-stats-tape-175629043/


Oregon Ducks edge rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux named a finalist for Bronko Nagurski Trophy (11-17-21):  https://www.oregonlive.com/ducks/2021/11/oregon-ducks-edge-rusher-kayvon-thibodeaux-named-a-finalist-for-bronko-nagurski-trophy.html

Oregon DC believes Kayvon Thibodeaux is 'the best defensive player' in the nation (11-16-21):  https://247sports.com/college/oregon/Article/Oregon-Ducks-Kayvon-Thibodeaux-Ducks-Football--175506759/

Oregon’s Kayvon Thibodeaux, Byron Cardwell Jr. recognized by Pac-12 for play against Washington State (For the second time this season, Oregon edge rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux swept Pac-12 defensive player and defensive lineman of the week honors.  Thibodeaux had six tackles with two sacks in No. 3 Oregon’s 38-24 win over Washington State to earn two more weekly honors from the conference. He’s the first Pac-12 player to sweep multiple awards in the same week twice this season.) (11-15-21):  https://www.oregonlive.com/ducks/2021/11/oregons-kayvon-thibodeaux-byron-cardwell-jr-recognized-by-pac-12-for-play-against-washington-state.html

Kayvon Thibodeaux notches 2 sacks to help No. 3 Oregon Ducks top Washington State (11-14-21):  https://www.oregonlive.com/ducks/2021/11/kayvon-thibodeaux-notches-2-sacks-to-help-no-3-oregon-ducks-top-washington-state.html

Ranking the 25 best prospects in the 2021 & 2022 NFL Drafts (7. 2022 EDGE KAYVON THIBODEAUX, OREGON:  So while it wasn’t 10 players, the 2021 class did still have the blue-chip stronghold over 2022. Thibodeaux has improved his overall grade each season at Oregon and currently boasts an elite 91.2 pass-rush grade in 2021.) (11-12-21):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-25-best-prospects-2021-2022-nfl-draft-rankings

Why The Best Pass Rusher In College Football Doesn’t Get Many Sacks (11-11-21):  https://fivethirtyeight.com/features/why-the-best-pass-rusher-in-college-football-doesnt-get-many-sacks

2022 NFL Draft Big Board: Top 50 prospect rankings after Week 10 of the 2021 CFB season (1. Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon:  While the 2022 NFL Draft possesses a deep and diverse edge class, Oregon’s Kayvon Thibodeaux is clearly the cream of the crop. There’s a reason why DraftKings Sportsbook has the premier pass rusher as a clear favorite to be the first overall selection when Roger Goodell opens the draft from Las Vegas in April.  Thibodeaux is a glorious mixture of size, speed, explosion, and agility wrapped up in a lean 6’5″, 250-pound, pass-rushing machine. Calling him just a pass-rusher, however, doesn’t do justice to the damage he can do in the run game. He’s an all-around threat on the defensive line who has also been tasked with dropping into coverage on occasion.) (11-10-21):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2022-nfl-draft-big-board-top-50-prospects-w0/

2022 NFL Draft Stock - Week 10 (Stock Up - Kayvon Thibodeaux, DE, Oregon:  Thibodeaux is the favorite to the No. 1-overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, and his performance against the Washington Huskies over the weekend made for just one more tape that will help him achieve that statuss. Despite facing a quality offensive lineman in Washington left tackle Jaxon Kirkland, Thibodeaux continued his impressive final season for Oregon.  In the first quarter on a third-and-3, Thibodeaux read a play well to make the stop short to force a fourth-and-1. Shortly later, Thibodeaux dropped into coverage, where he did a nice job of covering a receiver to occupy a throwing lane, which helped lead to an easy interception for a teammate.  At the start of the third quarter, Thibodeaux worked upfield against Kirkland before spinning back toward the line of scrimmage to join a teammate for a sack. Late in the game, Thibodeaux came close to a sack with a powerful rush up the middle to blow up the pocket. Oregon was moving him around to try to make it hard for Washington to send double teams, but when Thibodeaux was on the edge, the Huskies would slide blocking his direction. Even with extra blocking, Thibodeaux impacted the pass rush and put steady pressure on the quarterback. Thibodeaux also created a push in the ground game, driving tackles backward in the pocket. This outing against the Huskies was another good tape from Oregon's superstar rusher.  For the NFL, Thibodeaux looks like a Khalil Mack type pass-rusher. He is explosive, twitchy, physical, shocks opponents with his power, and has a burst to close. This game showed Thibodeaux has a very good get-off, firing off the ball despite playing on an ankle that has bothered him all season. Thibodeaux is worthy of going high in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft and should as one of the first three picks next April.) (11-9-21):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2022stock_10.php

Oregon’s Thibodeaux commands attention from opponents, NFL (11-5-21):  https://apnews.com/article/nfl-college-football-sports-oregon-jimmy-lake-c62f41b0e54d1eefa8d09d3317133197

Fox sports Rob Rang's Big Board (1. Kayvon Thibodeaux, DE, Oregon, 6-foot-5, 250, JR:  He topped my initial Big Board in August, and despite his missing two games due to a left ankle sprain, I see no reason to change his position. Thibodeaux signed with Oregon as the top-rated prep prospect in the country and has lived up to his billing, impacting games even more than his impressive statistics (31 tackles for loss and 16 sacks in 25 career games) suggest. Lightning quick off the edge and much stronger than his frame would indicate, Thibodeaux is a game-wrecker against both the run and the pass.) (11-6-21):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/nfl-draft-big-board-kayvon-thibodeaux-ranks-no-1-but-dbs-dominate-2022-class

Ranking college football’s top pass-rushers on the edge ahead of Week 10 (2. KAYVON THIBODEAUX, OREGON DUCKS:  Thibodeaux is understandably the early favorite to be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. The 6-foot-5, 258-pound edge defender is built to play at the next level. From a collegiate production standpoint, Thibodeaux has seen immense growth this season after earning an 80.9 pass-rush grade as an underclassman. He’s showing refinement within his rushes and is no longer winning on tools alone.  The Oregon Duck has earned a 92.0 pass-rush grade in 2021 despite missing a couple of games early due to injury. Last week’s performance against Colorado may look underwhelming on paper (60.2 pass-rush grade and two pressures), but that doesn’t tell the full story. Colorado quarterback Brendon Lewis threw the ball within two seconds of the snap on over half of Thibodeaux's 20 pass-rush snaps, leaving the star pass-rusher with only a few true pass-rush opportunities in the game. When Thibodeaux was off the field, the Colorado offense stopped calling quick, schemed throws, which illustrates the kind of impact he has on college football games.) (11-3-21):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-ranking-top-pass-rushers-on-edge-week-10-aidan-hutchinson-kayvon-thibodeaux

2022 NFL draft film room: Oregon EDGE Kayvon Thibodeaux (11-1-21):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/nfl-draft-kayvon-thibodeaux-oregon-film-room-highlights-video/

Top 10 Defensive Ends in the 2022 NFL Draft: Kayvon Thibodeaux reigns supreme (1. Kayvon Thibodeaux, Oregon:  There’s never been any doubt who the top defensive end in the 2022 NFL Draft is. It’s Kayvon Thibodeaux — case closed. Among our panel of analysts, Thibodeaux received two votes as the best player in the entire class (Kyle Hamilton received one vote). NFL mock drafts constantly list Thibodeaux in the top three, and that’s no accident. He has extremely rare ability as a defensive lineman.  Producing has never been a problem for Thibodeaux, given his pallet of traits. His freshman season — in which he amassed 9 sacks and 14 tackles for loss — earned him national honors. And this year, he hasn’t slowed down.  Thibodeaux’s only played four games because of an injury, but over that span, he has 7.5 TFL, 4 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles. With elite length and explosiveness, and uncommon artificial power, Thibodeaux has the potential to be a game-wrecker in the NFL.) (10-29-21):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-10-defensive-ends-in-the-2022-nfl-draft/

2022 NFL Draft Rumors: How secure is Raiders GM Mike Mayock’s future in Las Vegas (Kayvon Thibodeaux dominated the action against UCLA this past weekend. Is that what we can expect from him in the NFL?  If he stays healthy, the sky is the limit for Kayvon Thibodeaux, who has been my highest-rated player by a lot since the summer.) (10-29-21):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-draft-rumors-2021-nflwk-8/

2022 NFL Draft Prospects: Updated big board, player rankings, and more (1. KAYVON THIBODEAUX, EDGE, OREGON:  A pro’s pro, the future of the NFL’s edge rushers, Kayvon Thibodeaux is a bullet-proof prospect. Putting his dominance on display time in and time out, no one can touch him in this class. Thibodeaux is as rock-solid as a pass rusher as he is in run defense. He does all of this while standing at a menacing 6’5″, 258 pounds.) (10-28-21):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2022-nfl-draft-prospects-big-board-player-rankings-more/

PFF’s Heisman Rankings ahead of College Football Week 9 (10. EDGE Kayvon Thibodeaux, Oregon Ducks:  Thibodeaux missed some time due to injury earlier this year, but he’s back on the gridiron and wrecking games like everyone expected. The projected No. 1 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft has produced double-digit pressures in back-to-back games and is fresh off winning PFF's Defensive Player of the Week in Oregon’s win over UCLA on Saturday. Thibodeaux has earned an elite pass-rush grade (above 90.0) in three of his four outings with at least 10 pass-rushes this season. Now, Thibodeaux ranks top three among Power Five edge defenders in pass-rush grade, win rate and pressure rate.) (10-27-21):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-pffs-heisman-rankings-ahead-of-week-9-matt-corral-kayvon-thibodeaux-bryce-young

College Football Week 8: PFF's Team of the Week and Player Awards (PFF Team of the Week - Edge: Kayvon Thibodeaux, Oregon.  DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK: EDGE KAYVON THIBODEAUX, OREGON:  Thibodeaux has been one of the nation's most impactful pass-rushers this year, and he shined bright once again in Oregon's big win over UCLA on Saturday.  The 6-foot-5, 258-pound edge recorded double-digit pressures for the second consecutive week and won 14 total reps. Three of his 10 pressures ended with the QB on the ground, with one of those being a strip-sack fumble.  Thibodeaux finished the day with a 91.2 pass-rush grade, marking the third time in four games — with at least 10 pass-rushes — that he has recorded an elite mark above 90.0.  Thibodeaux is essentially a Frankenstein's Monster of pass-rushers. His physical profile is seemingly perfect for playing the position at the next level. This year, Thibodeaux is showing refinement within his game and looks almost unblockable at times. At this rate, Thibodeaux is looking like the slam-dunk No. 1 overall pick in 2022.) (10-24-21):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-week-8-team-of-the-week-player-awards-2021

Week 8 College Football Players of the Week: Kayvon Thibodeaux and Leo Chenal shine (DE Kayvon Thibodeaux, Oregon:  Kayvon Thibodeaux reminded everyone why he’s considered a potential top pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. He made a strong case why he should be the only option teams consider first overall. On Saturday, UCLA never had an answer for the Oregon star, and he showed up when the Ducks needed a big play.  Thibodeaux produced 9 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, 2 sacks, and 1 QB hurry. He made the Bruins change their game plan in terms of how they block him. As a result, he often gave other players favorable matchups to make plays. While part of his impact showed up in the box score, much of it can’t be counted.) (10-24-21):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/college-football-players-of-the-week-2021-cfbwk-8/

College Football Team of the Week: Sam Hartman destroys an Army (EDGE: Kayvon Thibodeaux, Oregon - The best player in college football put on a show for the national TV audience on Saturday. Kayvon Thibodeaux was everything he was cracked up to be, and the nation saw a dominant performance. He finished with 2 sacks, 4.5 tackles for loss, 8 solo tackles, but that tells only half the story. Thibodeaux routinely disrupted UCLA’s offensive game plan and had at least double-digits in total pressures.)(10-24-21):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/college-football-team-of-the-week-2021-cfbwk-8/2/

Kayvon Thibodeaux dominates (again) as Oregon escapes UCLA (2. Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon:  How a team performs without them is a good measurement of how good a player is. The Oregon defense is a different unit when Kayvon Thibodeaux isn’t on the field. When he is, his play leaps off the tape even more than the dominant defensive end leaps off the line of scrimmage and into the opposition’s backfield. Thibodeaux is a glorious mixture of size, speed, explosion, and agility wrapped up in a lean 6’5″, 250-pound, pass-rushing machine.) (10-23-21):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2021/10/23/kayvon-thibodeaux-oregon-ucla-nfl-draft/

2022 NFL Draft Big Board: Top 50 prospect rankings after Week 7 of the season (2.  Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon:  How a team performs without them is a good measurement of how good a player is. The Oregon defense is a different unit when Kayvon Thibodeaux isn’t on the field. When he is, his play leaps off the tape even more than the dominant defensive end leaps off the line of scrimmage and into the opposition’s backfield. Thibodeaux is a glorious mixture of size, speed, explosion, and agility wrapped up in a lean 6’5″, 250-pound, pass-rushing machine.) (10-23-21):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2022-nfl-draft-big-board-top-50-prospects-w0/

Lions GM Brad Holmes attends UCLA vs. Oregon game looking for draft prospects (Oregon DE Kayvon Thibodeaux was the primary drawing card. Thibodeaux is the presumptive top defensive prospect in this draft class and a candidate for the Lions’ first-round pick. He looked the part with two sacks and some outstanding run defense.) (10-23-21):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2021/10/23/detroit-lions-2022-nfl-draft-brad-holmes-oregon-ucla-kayvon-thibodeaux-mykael-wright/

Detroit Lions 2022 draft watch: 10 prospects to watch this Saturday (Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon (redshirt sophomore)
6-foot-5, 258 pounds:  If the draft was today, there’s a good chance Thibodeaux would be the No. 1 pick.  Thibodeaux’s combination of size, length, athleticism, speed, power, and skill set makes him one of the most appealing and rare prospects in this draft cycle. He has been on scouts’ radars since jumping onto the scene as a freshman and over the past three seasons has only gotten better.  While physically gifted, there is more to Thibodeaux’s game than pure talent. He has the skills to win in multiple ways and sets up his opponent with a variety of attacking moves. With elite first-step quickness and lightning in his punches, he can win with speed-to-power, bull rush, or by purely getting to and bending the edge—consistently mixing it up and keeping offensive tackles guessing or recovering.  He is capable of pushing inside to the 4i, but is best suited on the EDGE where he can rush with his hand in the dirt or from a standing outside linebacker position—which is where the Lions would play him.) (10-23-21):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2021/10/23/22734224/detroit-lions-2022-draft-watch-10-college-prospects-to-watch

Kayvon Thibodeaux back to wreaking havoc for Oregon Ducks entering trip to UCLA (10-21-21):  https://www.oregonlive.com/ducks/2021/10/kayvon-thibodeaux-back-to-wrecking-havoc-for-oregon-ducks-entering-trip-to-ucla.html


College Football Week 7: PFF's Team of the Week and Player Awards (PFF Team of the Week - Edge: Kayvon Thibodeaux, Oregon) (10-17-21):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-week-7-team-of-the-week-player-awards-2021

Week 7 College Football Players of the Week: Tyrion Davis-Price breaks LSU’s single-game rushing... (College Football Defensive Players of the Week | Week 7 - Which defensive players make up the Players of the Week for Week 7?  DE Kayvon Thibodeaux, Oregon:  If you haven’t watched the clips from Friday night, please do. Then you’ll understand why Kayvon Thibodeaux is on this list without filling up the stat sheet. Cal found life miserable thanks to the Oregon star, and he continues reminding us why he’ll be a top-five pick in the upcoming NFL Draft.) (10-17-21):   https://www.profootballnetwork.com/college-football-players-of-the-week-2021-cfbwk-7/

In case you forgot, Kayvon Thibodeaux is a dominant force (10-16-21):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2021/10/16/kayvon-thibodeaux-oregon-nfl-draft-cal-college-football/

Oregon's Kayvon Thibodeaux is more than the next potential No. 1 NFL draft pick (10-15-21):  https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/32121480/oregon-kayvon-thibodeaux-more-next-potential-no-1-nfl-draft-pick

Oregon's Kayvon Thibodeaux ejected for targeting vs. Stanford (10-5-21):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2021/10/02/kayvon-thibodeaux-targeting-ejected-oregon-stanford/

CJ Verdell runs wild as Oregon knocks off Ohio State (The Ducks pulled off the big win despite being without star pass rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux, widely regarded as the top prospect in the 2022 NFL draft class, due to an ankle injury.) (9-11-21):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2021/09/11/oregon-ohio-state-recap-cj-verdell-kayvon-thibodeaux-nfl-draft-college-football/

Oregon's Kayvon Thibodeaux (ankle) doubtful vs. Ohio State (9-11-21):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2021/09/11/kayvon-thibodeaux-injury-update-oregon-ohio-state-nfl-draft/

Detroit Lions 2022 draft watch: 10 prospects to watch this Saturday (Potential bonus watch: Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon (Jr)—if he plays—vs Nicholas Petit-Frere, LT, Ohio State (redshirt Jr) - Thibodeaux, in contention for the No. 1 pick overall in this class, injured his ankle last week and his status is up in the air for this contest. If he plays, he will square off against potential first-round pick Petit-Frere, who is making the switch from right to left tackle this season.) (9-11-21):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2021/9/11/22667187/detroit-lions-2022-draft-watch-10-prospects-watch-this-saturday

NFL draft: Oregon's Kayvon Thibodeaux leads our 5 prospects to watch this week (Oregon EDGE Kayvon Thibodeaux:  We don’t yet know if Thibodeaux will suit up for this one at the Horseshoe. He’s listed as “day to day” heading into Saturday’s matchup of heavyweight teams after suffering an ankle injury in the Ducks' opening win over Fresno State. He ended up wearing a boot, although X-rays later were negative, giving hope he can suit up Saturday.  In his 19 defensive snaps last week, Thibodeaux — perhaps the non-QB with the best chance to be the No. 1 overall pick in 2022 — lined up on the right side of the line 10 times and the left side nine times. (He notched a sack and a forced fumble, too.)  So if Thibodeaux plays Saturday, he’s likely to face both Ohio State tackles, Nicholas Petit-Frere on the left side and Dawand Jones on the right. Petit-Frere is a possible first-rounder in 2022, but don’t overlook Jones, who looked terrific last week against Minnesotsa in only his second career college start.  Thibodeaux is an exciting prospect with outstanding juice, size and pass-rush skills. If last week is an indication, he might be more refined in his pass-rush technique this season than he displayed last year. He's not in the Chase Young category of defensive prospect, but a healthy Thibodeaux isn’t too far off.  If he doesn’t play Saturday, it might not cost him a top-five draft slot in the end. But, boy, scouts sure would love to see him in a marquee matchup such as this — and selfishly, so would we.) (9-10-21):  https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-draft-oregons-kayvon-thibodeaux-leads-our-5-prospects-to-watch-this-week-153510356.html

NFL Draft 2022 prospect watch: Matt Corral, Ohio State WRs rise; Sam Howell falls after Week 1 (Faller - Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon:  The Ducks' defeat of Fresno State came at a cost as Thibodeaux, the early best pass-rushing prospect in the 2022 class, rolled his lower leg and came away with a ankle sprain. He's considered day-to-day for Week 2 and could play vs. Ohio State, per coach Mario Cristobal. But that type of injury tends to be nagging and can limit a player of Thibodeaux's explosiveness.  Either Thibodeaux won't be near 100 percent for a big opportunity against Stound and the Buckeyes' passing game or he will miss a high pro level matchup. That opens the door for USC's Drake Jackson, another Pac-12 edge standout, to build on his strong opener vs. San Jose State and jump Thibodeaux early.) (9-8-21):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-draft-2022-sam-howell-matt-corral-ohio-state/pkbi307t86zo12ac63j2cgylw

Pac-12 2022 NFL Draft prospects and scouting reports (Kayvon Thibodeaux, DE | Grade: 4.15 | Projected Round: 1st:  Kayvon Thibodeaux is all he’s cracked up to be and is a terrific defensive front-seven prospect. He’s incredibly athletic and explosive, but at the same time, Thibodeaux plays with great intensity and instincts. He possesses excellent balance, body control, and agility, and you rarely find Thibodeaux off his feet. He’s a terrific pass rusher who can bend off the edge and easily changes direction to catch ball handlers in backside pursuit.  If there’s one concern in his game, it’s lack of bulk, as Thibodeaux gets engulfed by larger blockers. Yet, considering his age, growth potential, and the fact that he’s shown consistent improvement in his game, there’s no reason to believe the issue won’t take care of itself in the near future.  Thibodeaux is truly the type of prospect that was once the most coveted in the NFL Draft before the league started reaching for quarterbacks; he’s an impact defensive player.) (9-5-21):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/pac-12-prospects-scouting-reports-2022-nfl-draft/

Kayvon Thibodeaux in walking boot after injury in season opener (9-4-21):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2021/09/04/kayvon-thibodeaux-injury-update-oregon-nfl-draft/

2022 NFL Draft: Thibodeaux top prospect in the Pac-12 (The majority of the Ducks' talent is on defense. Kayvon Thibodeaux is regarded as one of the top prospects expected to be available in the 2022 NFL Draft regardless of position, and rightfully so. However, the brakes need to be pumped a bit on the hype. The California native has a slender lower body and can continue to develop more counter moves to win rep to rep. ) (9-1-21):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2022-nfl-draft-pac-12-prospect-preview-edge-rushers-kayvon-thibodeaux-drake-jackson-top-prospects-out-west/

Top defensive ends in the 2022 NFL Draft include Kayvon Thibodeaux, George Karlaftis (1. Kayvon Thibodeaux, Oregon:  Ever since his explosive freshman season when the college football world was introduced to Kayvon Thibodeaux, the Oregon DE has been earmarked to be at the top of the 2022 NFL Draft. Thibodeaux is the top defensive end and is also widely regarded as one of the top players in the entire 2022 NFL Draft class.  What makes Thibodeaux so special? It starts with insane athletic traits. He’s incredibly explosive, demonstrates excellent body movement, and exhibits tremendous play speed. At 6’5″, he has stellar height for the position. The Oregon pass rusher also possesses great length.  That helps him be a menace at the line of scrimmage — both in terms of winning as a pass rusher and making plays on the ball in the air. In addition to being a phenomenal pass rusher, Thibodeaux is impressive against the run. His ability to neutralize the opposition’s ground game is underrated.  While Thibodeaux would benefit from refinement of his pass-rush toolbox, his ability to convert speed to power effortlessly will leave many offensive linemen embarrassed this fall.) (8-27-21):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2022-nfl-draft-top-defensive-ends-drake-jackson-kayvon-thibodeaux/

10 NFL draft prospects you need to know: Oregon EDGE Kayvon Thibodeaux (8-16-21):  https://sports.yahoo.com/10-nfl-draft-prospects-you-need-to-know-oregon-edge-kayvon-thibodeaux-161652919.html

Oregon Football: Ducks Defensive End Kayvon Thibodeaux Can Do Almost Anything (8-9-21):  https://athlonsports.com/college-football/oregon-football-ducks-defensive-end-kayvon-thibodeaux-can-do-almost-anything

Top 10 2022 NFL Draft prospects in the Pac-12 (EDGE KAYVON THIBODEAUX, OREGON (JUNIOR):  The No. 3 player on PFF’s preseason draft board, Thibodeaux has the goods for the edge position. He has everything from bend, burst, length and strength — all the tools are there. The scary thing is that he’s put together games like his 12-pressure performance against USC with a fairly limited pass-rushing toolbox. At the moment, he is an edge-bender/bull-rusher who gets by on that massive physical advantage. But boy, is that physical advantage something to behold.  He is just a different caliber of athlete than you normally see from a 6-foot-5, 250-pound edge defender. His ability to make plays up and down the line of scrimmage is second to none in college football.  Trapped in an Oregon defense that gave him little in the way of freedom last year — and even had him lining up over the tackles at times — Thibodeaux will be let loose far more this season under new defensive coordinator Tim DeRuyter.) (8-7-21):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-top-10-2022-nfl-draft-prospects-pac-12

PFF 2021 College Preseason Ted Hendricks Award Watch List: Best defensive end in college football (2. KAYVON THIBODEAUX, OREGON:  Thibodeaux’s 2020 campaign started slowly, but he looked like an elite edge defender over his final four games (out of seven on the year). Thibodeaux ranked as one of the best players at his position over that span, boasting an 87.2 PFF grade that included a 12-pressure performance against USC and Alijah Vera-Tucker — a first-round pick in 2021 — in the Pac-12 championship game.  If you were to build a perfect college pass rusher among those playing next year, Thibodeaux’s get-off and bend would be precisely what you'd want. He is an elite talent who is bound for a monstrous 2021. Circle his Week 2 contest against the best tackle duo in college football — Thayer Munford and Nicholas Petit-Frere — as the Ducks take on the Ohio State Buckeyes in Columbus, Ohio.) (7-28-21):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-preseason-award-watch-list-ted-hendricks-award-2021

PFF 2021 College Preseason Bednarik Award/Nagurski Trophy Watch List: Best defensive player in college football (4. EDGE KAYVON THIBODEAUX, OREGON:  Thibodeaux’s 2020 campaign started slowly, but he turned on the jets down the stretch and looked like an elite edge defender over his final four games (out of seven on the year). Thibodeaux was one of the highest-graded players at his position over that span, boasting an 87.2 PFF grade that included a 12-pressure performance against USC and Alijah Vera-Tucker — a first-round pick in 2021 — in the Pac-12 championship game.  If you were to build a perfect college pass rusher among those playing next year, Thibodeaux’s get-off and bend would be precisely what you'd want. He is an elite talent who is bound for a monstrous 2021. Be sure to circle the calendar for Week 2 when he goes up against the best tackle duo in college football — Thayer Munford and Nicholas Petit-Frere — as the Ducks take on the Buckeyes in Columbus, Ohio.) (7-19-21):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-preseason-award-watch-list-chuck-bednarik-award-bronko-nagurski-trophy-2021

2021 College Football Preseason All-Americans: Texas A&M dominate first-team honors (EDGE: Kayvon Thibodeaux, Oregon:  Oregon’s Kayvon Thibodeaux has been one of the most impactful defensive college football players over the past two seasons. Emerging as a game wrecker in his first year, he set Oregon program records for sacks by a freshman while leading the team in tackles for loss. A Freshman All-American, Thibodeaux earned second-team All-Freshman from multiple media outlets.  The Oregon product heads into the 2021 college football season with 23.5 tackles for loss and 12 sacks to his name. His insane athletic ability helps him to be equally dominant as a pass rusher and run defender. Fast, agile, and blessed with impressive size, he’s a contender to be the most explosive defender — nay, player — in the country. Thibodeaux was one of the first names on all four ballots for our college football first-team All-Americans.) (7-10-21):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2021-college-football-preseason-all-americans/2/

The PFF Preseason College Football All-Pac-12 Team: USC QB Kedon Slovis, Oregon EDGE Kayvon Thibodeaux lead the way (EDGE DEFENDER - First-Team: Kayvon Thibodeaux, Oregon.  Thibodeaux’s2020 campaign started slowly, but he turned on the jets down the stretch and looked like an elite edge defender over his final four games (out of seven on the year). Thibodeaux was one of the highest-graded players at his position over that span, boasting an 87.2 PFF grade that included a 12-pressure performance against USC and Alijah Vera-Tucker — a first-round pick in 2021 — in the Pac-12 championship game.  If you were to build a perfect college pass rusher among those playing next year, Thibodeaux’s get-off and bend would be precisely what you'd want. He is an elite talent who is bound for a monstrous 2021. Be sure to circle the calendar for Week 2 when he goes up against the best tackle duo in college football — Thayer Munford and Nicholas Petit-Frere — as the Ducks take on the Buckeyes in Columbus, Ohio.) (6-30-21):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-rankings-pff-preseason-all-pac-12-team-2021

Early 2022 NFL Draft edge defender rankings and class overview (1. KAYVON THIBODEAUX, OREGON (JUNIOR):  Thibodeaux is that type of uber-athlete who pops from the first play on tape to the last. His blend of explosiveness, bend and length at 6-foot-5, 250 pounds is tailor-made to win off the edge in the NFL. He threatens offensive tackles so much with his get-off that it makes him a deadly weapon as a bull-rusher.  Oregon’s scheme doesn’t quite allow him the freedom to attack as much as some others around college football, but he still averaged nearly five pressures a game as a true sophomore last season. Even though he’s relatively slim and should feasibly pack on 10-20 more pounds of muscle before he hits the league, Thibodeaux can still set a strong edge and is one of the best run defenders in college football.  Superlatives - Best bend: KAYVON THIBODEAUX, OREGON
To quote Leon Taylor in Playmakers, “It’s not one move, it’s a way of moving.” That’s how it feels watching Thibodeaux’s tape. The way he’s able to consistently play low at 6-foot-5 is not something you see every day. His bend is going to be a problem for NFL tackles for a while.) (6-29-21):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2022-edge-rankings-class-overview

The PFF Preseason College Football All-America Team: Spencer Rattler, Chris Olave and Derek Stingley Jr. earn first-team spots (First-Team: Kayvon Thibodeaux, Oregon:  Thibodeaux’s 2020 campaign started slowly, but he turned on the jets down the stretch and looked like an elite edge defender over his final four games (out of seven on the year). Thibodeaux was one of the highest-graded players at his position over that span, boasting an 87.2 PFF grade that included a 12-pressure performance against USC and Alijah Vera-Tucker — a first-round pick in 2021 — in the Pac-12 championship game.  Oregon star defensive lineman Kayvon Thibodeaux celebrates after the Ducks' victory over Colorado. Credit: Andy Nelson via Imagn Content Services, LLC.  Ifyou were to build a perfect college pass-rusher among those playing next year, Thibodeaux’s get-off and bend would be precisely what you'd want. He is an elite talent who is bound for a monstrous 2021. Be sure to circle the calendar for Week 2 when he goes up against the best tackle duo in college football — Thayer Munford and Nicholas Petit-Frere — as the Ducks take on the Buckeyes in Columbus, Ohio.) (6-29-21):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-all-america-team-2021

Scouting Kayvon Thibodeaux: Oregon star reminiscent of former NFL great DeMarcus Ware (6-23-21):  https://www.nfl.com/news/scouting-kayvon-thibodeaux-oregon-star-reminiscent-of-former-nfl-great-demarcus-

Can Kayvon Thibodeaux become the next DeMarcus Ware? (6-23-21):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2021/06/23/2022-nfl-draft-kayvon-thibodeaux-oregon-demarcus-ware/

College Football: Ranking the top 10 returning edge defenders in 2021 and a sleeper to watch (2. KAYVON THIBODEAUX, OREGON:  As a five-star recruit who ranked second overall in the 2019 class, according to 247Sports, Thibodeaux brought plenty of hype with him to Oregon. He lived up to that as a true freshman in 2019, notching a 79.9 pass-rush grade — second-best in the Pac-12 and over 10 grading points higher than any other first-year edge rusher in the Power Five.  His 2020 campaign started slowly, but he turned on the jets down the stretch and looked like an elite edge defender over his final four games (out of seven on the year). Thibodeaux was one of the highest-graded players at his position over that span, boasting an 87.2 PFF grade that included a 12-pressure performance against USC and Alijah Vera-Tucker — a first-round pick in 2021 — in the Pac-12 Championship game.  If you were to build a perfect college pass rusher among those playing next year, Thibodeaux’s get-off and bend would be precisely what you'd want. He is an elite talent who is bound for a monstrous 2021. Be sure to circle the calendar for Week 2 when he goes up against the best tackle duo in college football — Thayer Munford and Nicholas Petit-Frere — as the Ducks take on the Buckeyes in Columbus, Ohio.) (5-9-21):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-ranking-the-top-10-returning-edge-defenders-in-2021-and-a-sleeper-to-watch

2022 NFL Draft Big Board: Early top 50 prospect rankings (1. Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon:  There are a select few players considered for the top overall spot each year. This year, Oregon’s Kayvon Thibodeaux is one of those players. The 6-foot-5, 250-pound edge rusher moves with otherworldly explosiveness, flexibility, and pace. His length allows him to fabricate power in close contact. He’s a hyper-athletic pass rusher in the mold of several first overall picks before him.) (5-8-21):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2022-nfl-draft-big-board-top-50-prospects/

The 25 most intriguing 2022 NFL draft prospects, including 10 QBs (Oregon EDGE Kayvon Thibodeaux:  Thisrecent draft class lacked a Nick Bosa-Chase Young level of edge rusher. That run ends in 2022 with Thibodeaux. He’s a star.  USC’s Alijah Vera-Tucker was one of our favorite offensive linemen to watch last season, and he was well worth the Jets trading up for him with the 14th overall pick. The one player Vera-Tucker struggled with last season: Thibodeaux, who pretty much owned AVT in their matchup.) (5-6-21):  https://sports.yahoo.com/the-25-most-intriguing-2022-nfl-draft-prospects-including-10-q-bs-163838005.html

2022 NFL Draft prospects to watch at each position (Thibodeaux is a twitchy edge rusher that needs to continue developing his lower body. He is one of three first-round grades that I have handed out early in the process.) (5-6-21):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2022-nfl-draft-sam-howell-spencer-rattler-among-five-prospects-to-watch-at-each-position/

Top 10 Prospects for the 2022 NFL Draft (1. Kayvon Thibodeaux, Edge, Oregon:  A five-star recruit from the 2019 class, Thibodeaux has lived up to his billing at Oregon. He's racked up 23.5 tackles for loss and 12 sacks in his 20 games with the Ducks. At 6-foot-5 and 250 pounds, with elite athleticism, he has as much upside as anyone in this draft class off the edge.) (5-3-21):  https://www.thebiglead.com/posts/2022-nfl-draft-top-players-01f4qeeaymy2

Top 15 NFL draft rankings for 2022: Big-name talent awaits (1. Kayvon Thibodeaux, DE, Oregon:  No one else at the collegiate level can match his game-wrecking ability. For evidence of his dominance, look no further than his matchup against USC in the Pac-12 Championship Game, in which he repeatedly whipped 2020 first-round pick Alijah Vera-Tucker to the tune of 12 quarterback pressures. At 6-5 and 250 pounds, he can hold up against the run, but Thibodeaux will make his mark as a premier pass-rushing prospect capable of piling up double-digit sack seasons.) (5-3-21):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2021/05/02/nfl-draft-2022-rankings-spencer-rattler-sam-howell-early-list/4913481001/

The obscenely early 2022 NFL draft watch list: Defense (The 2021 EDGE class certainly brings promise to the next level, but with each of the top players perhaps facing some questions, whether due to their medical history, their lack of production or their rawness, it is unclear how this group is going to pan out. The next group, however, has the potential to be a much stronger class. It starts with Oregon’s Kavyon Thibodeaux, who was graded as the second-overall prospect in his recruiting class by 24/7 Sports. Thibodeaux is coming off a very strong season that included 12 pressures against USC’s Alijah Vera-Tucker in the Pac-12 Championship game. But Thibodeaux is not alone, and not by a long shot.) (5-3-21):  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/the-obscenely-early-2022-nfl-draft-watch-list-defense/

Top 2022 NFL Draft prospects to look forward to (Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon:  A five-star recruit out of Oaks Christian High School, Kayvon Thibodeaux was an insanely productive pass rusher. At the high school level, he racked up 54 sacks. His performances earned first-team All-American honors as a senior. He was also named the California Defensive Player of the Year before heading to the Oregon Ducks.  Thibodeaux didn’t miss a beat in making the transition from high school to college football. The Oregon edge rusher set a program freshman record with 9 sacks. He also led the team with 14 tackles for loss. His sack numbers were the most for an Oregon player in a decade.  Furthermore, he set a Pac-12 Championship Game record with 2.5 sacks against Utah in 2019. Thibodeaux’s performances earned him the Pac-12 Freshman Defensive Player of the Year Award and consensus Freshman All-American honors.  Even in the disrupted 2020 college football season, he proved to be a dominant force. Once again, he led the Ducks in sacks and tackles for loss while leading the Pac-12 in quarterback pressures and hurries. The 6’5″, 250-pound defensive end is an absolute monster, combining athleticism with pass-rush skills and an incredible work ethic. For my money, he’ll be the best of all the 2022 NFL Draft prospects.) (4-29-21):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-2022-nfl-draft-prospects-to-look-forward-to/



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