WATCH: Kayvon Thibodeaux's mother shares message with son following NFL Draft selection

On3 imageby:Nikki Chavanelle05/01/22

NikkiChavanelle

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Jeff Speer/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The New York Giants selected former Oregon Ducks star Kayvon Thibodeaux with the fifth-overall pick of the 2022 NFL Draft. Thibodeaux’s draft spot wasn’t the only surprise of the night on Thursday. His mother recorded a personal message for him to watch after his name was called.

“Son, you made it and you’re here. Congratulations. I am so very proud of you. It’s been a long time coming but we finally made it,” his mother said. “This is only the beginning. You have so much more to do. God’s got it. You do your part and remember he is going to do his. Momma loves you and I am so proud of you son.”

When the big moment arrived on Thursday and Make-A-Wish recipient Sam Prince delivered a heart-warming moment by announcing the Giants’ pick, Thibodeaux erupted with emotion and excitement.

‘That’s primetime,” Thibodeaux said, smiling on Wednesday when reporters asked what he thinks it would be like to play in New York.

The Giants had two first-round picks and took offensive lineman Evan Neal two slots later at No. 7 overall.

Thibodeaux heading to the Giants after illustrious career at Oregon

During his time at Oregon, Thibodeaux finished seventh in program history with 19 sacks. Seven came during his final season while playing in 11 games. He was a disruptor elsewhere in the backfield as well, totaling 123 tackles, 35.5 tackles for a loss, and three forced fumbles. One of the best of the past three years, Thibodeaux is now an early first-round draft pick.

New York Giants will be hoping similar results come over the next few years. An elite pass rusher can change the dynamic of your franchise and New York Giants has now heavily invested in one.

Thibodeaux has always been viewed as a highly rated prospect, dating back to his high school days. He was the top edge prospect, according to the On3 Consensus, in the 2019 class. The Five-Star Plus+ recruit was the No. 1 player from his home state of California and second overall in the country.

Living up to the first-round projection after his collegiate career, Thibodeaux will now try to meet new expectations with New York Giants.