Kayvon Thibodeaux hopes Giants make statement of ‘resiliency’ to kick off season against Vikings

Taking down the Vikings in a convincing manner would be a symbolic return to possible better days for the Giants, as the last time New York played Minnesota, it scored a Super Wild Card Weekend upset to continue its ’22 season.

That Vikings team will have a far different roster than it did then, namely a new quarterback after Kirk Cousins‘ departure, but New York is much changed, too — hopefully for the better.

The Giants could not overcome their failings on either side of the ball in 2023, as the offense ranked 30th in scoring and the defense finished 26th.

Jones, working his way back from an ACL tear with a potential out in his contract next year, will be most responsible for an offensive turnaround, especially after Saquon Barkley departed to the rival Eagles over the offseason. Thibodeaux noted that Jones has been a more vocal leader throughout the offseason program.

Defensively, much will be placed at the feet of defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence, Thibodeaux and his newest pass-rushing partner, Brian Burns, who comes to New York from Carolina via blockbuster trade.

“It’s exciting, man,” Thibodeaux said about Burns’ arrival. “It’s exciting. Me and Brian, we have a similar body type. We have a similar style of play. But he’s a little bit different. He’s faster, he’s quicker. He’s obviously farther in his career than I am, so there’s a lot of gems he’s been giving me. And he’s been able to help up my game a little bit, and I’ve been competing with him, giving him a few things I know, and it’s been great so far. I’m excited to see what’s all to come from that.”