The trade for Brian Burns has clarified the New York Giants’ future as an outside linebacker. After being acquired, Burns received a lucrative contract extension and has created a strong partnership with Kayvon Thibodeaux, whose rookie deal runs through 2026 thanks to a fifth-year option.
Other teams have taken notice of the Giants’ strategy, leading to discussions about Azeez Ojulari, Thibodeaux’s current replacement. Ojulari, drafted during Dave Gettleman’s final offseason as general manager, is in an intriguing contract year. With Thibodeaux expected to return from a wrist injury in November, NFL.com’s Ian Rapoport reports that teams are likely to inquire about Ojulari’s availability.
Teams have already begun to do their homework on Ojulari, a former second-round pick. Interest was shown in him back in August, according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. With the trade deadline approaching, interest in the fourth-year pass rusher is expected to increase, especially as he has started the season strong.
Ojulari has stepped up in Thibodeaux’s absence, recording three sacks over the last two games as a starter. If Thibodeaux misses two more games, he will return to his role, pushing Ojulari back to the bench. Although the Giants are struggling at 2-5 and recently suffered a lopsided defeat to the Eagles, they may be hesitant to trade Ojulari since he is an important player during this crucial stretch.
At just 24 years old, Ojulari made a strong impression in his rookie season with eight sacks. During the Gettleman era, there were few investments made in the edge-rushing department, particularly after trading away Jason Pierre-Paul and Olivier Vernon. Ojulari has accumulated 13.5 sacks over his first two seasons, with 5.5 coming in just seven games in 2022. However, he struggled last season, managing only 2.5 sacks in 11 games while battling injuries that sidelined him for 16 games between the 2022 and 2023 seasons, prompting the Giants to seek an upgrade through Burns.
Dexter Lawrence leads the Giants with nine sacks, making him untouchable in any potential trades. Burns has contributed four sacks, helping the Giants improve their pass rush, which now leads the NFL with 31 sacks.
If the Giants’ struggles continue leading up to the November 5 deadline, they may consider trading players. Darius Slayton could also attract interest, particularly after his offseason contract negotiations resulted in only incentive adjustments. The Giants will need to evaluate offers, and if Ojulari maintains his current performance level, he may become too expensive to retain beyond the 2024 season. Balancing a potential trade now against the possibility of receiving a compensatory pick in 2026 will be a key consideration for the Giants’ management as they navigate this challenging season.
