Articles

By Michael J. Basile AKA @MdoublejB

With their 3rd pick of the evening in round 1, the GMen picked the best corner in the draft in Deandre Baker of Georgia.  Despite measurables of 5’11” 193 lbs and a 4.52 40 time, he’s very competitive and plays with an edge to him on every down.

Baker was the 2018 winner of the Jim Thorpe Award, given annually to the nation’s top defensive back and a semifinalist for the Chuck Bednarik Award for the NCAA top college defender.

The downside to Baker is the lack of elite speed, and the ability to shed blocks in run support, but always seems to make huge plays on the opponents top receiver.  Baker is versatile (plays inside and out) and will most likely compete at nickel; however, he could push Beal who has yet to take the field in a NY Giants uniform due to injury.

Strengths:

  • Quickness in coverage against slants
  • Man to man and zone cover skills
  • Timing
  • Ball Awareness
  • Ball skills

Dave Gettleman’s start to this draft will be heavily criticized for his first pick, however, this corner is an immediate starter.  He played in the SEC which is far and away from the most competitive NCAA conference.  He also hasn’t allowed a touchdown since 2017 and as a result, Baker found his way into the 1st round.

In James Bettcher’s defense, he should fit in perfectly.  Everyone complains about the lack of pass rushers on this defense.  Do you know what can mask that at times?  Great DB play. What if Janoris Jenkins bounces back and Baker and Beal play well? Two new playmaking safeties in Jabrill Peppers and Antione Bethea could be just what the Giants have needed for years.

The Seahawks in 2013 weren’t known for their pass rush, it was the secondary, labeled the LEGION OF BOOM.  Baker could be that surprise player that transforms the defensive backfield. The Giants traded back into the first round to grab him.

DESPITE what you think of the first two picks, this one was a solid move.