Giants' Thibodeaux: Lack of tackles vs. Cards 'all about the scheme'

New York Giants defensive end Kayvon Thibodeaux responded to criticism regarding him not having a single tackle in the Giants' Week 2 victory over the Arizona Cardinals.

"Did you guys watch the game?" Thibodeaux said, according to Paul Schwartz of the New York Post. "It was all about the scheme."

The 22-year-old asserted that when Azeez Ojulari left the game due to injury, Thibodeaux became the primary backside defender responsible for setting the edge on run plays, per Schwartz.

Thibodeaux has recorded only one tackle and zero sacks through two games.

"I mean, there are a lot of social media GMs," Thibodeaux said. "There are a lot of people who watch the game and want to coach, and they want to create narratives."

"But as long as I stick to the game plan, and my coaches and my team are happy with what I’m able to do - whether it be drop back, whether it be hold the edge, whatever it may be - I'm just happy to contribute."

The Giants' pass rush is struggling to get pressure on the quarterback, as they are the only team in the NFL yet to register at least half a sack through two games.

Thibodeaux was drafted fifth overall in 2022. He had 49 tackles and four sacks in his rookie campaign.

The Giants will face off against the San Francisco 49ers on Thursday night.