Giants’ Thibodeaux and Ojulari Look for Redemption in Powerful Defensive Duo
Kayvon Thibodeaux and Azeez Ojulari, the dynamic outside linebackers for the New York Giants, are determined to make amends for their underwhelming performances last season. The duo had high expectations in coordinator Wink Martindale’s aggressive defense, but injuries hindered their progress and limited their impact on the field.
Thibodeaux, the fifth overall pick in the draft, suffered a knee injury during the preseason, causing him to miss the first two regular-season games. Despite his setback, he managed to start in 14 of the following 15 games, as well as two playoff games. Thibodeaux finished the season with four sacks, 49 tackles, 13 quarterback hits, two forced fumbles, and two recoveries. While these numbers are respectable, Thibodeaux is not satisfied and aims to elevate his game even further.
Reflecting on his performance last year, Thibodeaux expressed his disappointment, saying, Last year’s film kind of disgusts me a little bit when I look at myself. I get a little cringe feeling. But it definitely is, like I said, a platform to continue to grow. Determined to grow and improve, Thibodeaux has focused on his physical conditioning and adopted a more professional approach to his training.
Ojulari, coming off an impressive rookie season with eight sacks, also struggled with injuries in 2021. He was limited to just seven regular-season games due to multiple setbacks, including hamstring, calf, and ankle injuries. Despite the challenges, Ojulari still managed to contribute with 14 tackles, seven quarterback hits, and 5.5 sacks, proving his potential as a pass rusher.
For Ojulari, staying healthy is his primary goal this season. He expressed his determination to play all 17 games, stating, Most important goal for me this season is to play all 17 games, stay healthy. That’s my main goal for me. To achieve this, Ojulari has redesigned his offseason workout program and focused on shedding weight to improve his agility and overall performance.
Thibodeaux and Ojulari share a strong bond and push each other to excel. They warm up together, laugh and joke during practice breaks, and compete relentlessly to outperform each other. Thibodeaux recognizes Ojulari’s potential, stating, He’s definitely one of the most talented pass rushers I’ve ever played with. Meanwhile, Ojulari acknowledges Thibodeaux’s abilities and believes the sky is the limit for his teammate.
As the Giants aim to return to the playoffs, both Thibodeaux and Ojulari are determined to make significant contributions on defense. Thibodeaux’s combination of speed, instincts, and pass-rushing skills, along with Ojulari’s relentless pursuit of the quarterback, make them a formidable duo.
Looking ahead, Thibodeaux refrains from setting specific numerical goals for his second season in the NFL. Instead, he simply wants to be great, make impactful plays when they matter the most, and help his team secure victories.
In other news, veteran receiver Sterling Shepard has been removed from the physically unable to perform list after recovering from an ACL injury last September. Shepard faces tough competition for a spot on the roster, with the Giants adding several new receivers through signings and the draft. Shepard remains focused on giving his best effort and accepting whatever outcome awaits him.
During practice, safety Jason Pinnock intercepted a red zone pass by quarterback Daniel Jones on the final play, giving the defense a victory and forcing the offense to complete a wind sprint.
Overall, Thibodeaux and Ojulari’s quest for redemption, coupled with the Giants’ determination to succeed, adds intrigue and excitement to the upcoming season. The team will rely on these talented outside linebackers to wreak havoc on opposing offenses and lead them back to the playoffs. As they continue to push each other to new heights, Giants fans eagerly anticipate the powerhouse defensive duo’s dominant performances on the field.
