The New York Giants are struggling this season, currently holding a 1-3 record after a disappointing loss to the Dallas Cowboys in Week 4. As head coach Brian Daboll faces mounting pressure, the team’s inability to improve could jeopardize his position.
One of the most pressing issues is the performance of second-year cornerback Deonte Banks. Despite a competent defensive unit overall, Banks has been a liability in the secondary. He has played 248 snaps this season, allowing 259 yards and four touchdowns while only recording two pass breakups. His performance has been troubling, ranking him among the worst in the league for yardage allowed.
Selected 25th overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, Banks was expected to emerge as a dependable CB1 in his second year. While he possesses the physical attributes—speed and size—needed for success, his struggles with ball skills and awareness have drawn parallels to former Giants corner Eli Apple.
Recent matchups against elite receivers like Amari Cooper and CeeDee Lamb have further highlighted his deficiencies. In the last two weeks, he allowed 73 yards to Cooper and 76 yards to Lamb, showing difficulty in maintaining coverage and making key plays on the ball. In the game against Cleveland, he was targeted 12 times, giving up two touchdowns and earning his lowest coverage grade of the season.
Banks often finds himself in close coverage but struggles to adjust, particularly in turning his hips and locating the ball. This lack of awareness makes him an easy target for opposing quarterbacks, leaving the Giants’ secondary vulnerable.
For the Giants to improve defensively, Banks must evolve into the cornerback they envisioned when they drafted him. His ongoing struggles are creating a significant gap in the secondary that opposing offenses are exploiting.
If Banks cannot address his shortcomings, the Giants may need to explore free agency for reinforcements. Several quality cornerbacks, such as Carlton Davis and Charvarius Ward, could become available next offseason. However, the Giants’ ability to pursue top talent will depend on their financial situation, which could improve significantly if they part ways with quarterback Daniel Jones.
Releasing Jones would free up nearly $20 million in cap space, enabling the Giants to make a stronger move for a top cornerback. As the season unfolds, it will be essential for Banks to step up if the Giants hope to remain competitive.
Ultimately, the team needs more from its secondary to turn the season around. With Banks’ physical tools still promising, there’s hope for improvement, but time is running out. If changes aren’t made soon, significant roster adjustments may be necessary in the offseason to address both the secondary and other critical positions.