By Michael Stewart/@TheTruthNYG
This will be the final article in a series of 10 as we spotlight the cornerback position for 2021. Since last off season, GM Dave Gettleman and Head Coach Joe Judge have invested heavily at the cornerback position in free agency, trade market and in the draft. Let’s take a look at the projected starters, backups and the others on the outside looking in.
Starters
- James Bradberry (CB1-outside): Bradberry was arguably the Giants best free agent signing in 2020 as he locked down his side of the field. The Giants brass expects the same results in 2021.
- Adoree’ Jackson (CB2-outside): The Giants showed a lot of commitment to Jackson by signing him to a 3 year/$39M deal. His ability is not the issue, but rather a history with injuries. If Jackson can avoid the disable list, he will be a top notch compliment as the CB2 for the Giants.
- Darnay Holmes (slot): At this point, Holmes gets the edge over rookie Aaron Robinson based on familiarity of the system and a year of NFL experience under his belt. However; it wouldn’t surprise me if Holmes shares his snaps or possibly loses his starting spot to Robinson as the season progresses.
Backups
- Aaron Robinson (outside/slot): Robinson was a surprised pick in round 3 for the Giants as everyone expected an offensive lineman to be selected. Robinson has that rare ability to play both on the outside and in slot and likes to play physical. Robinson will challenge Darnay Holmes for playing time in the slot and see some snaps on the outside.
- Julius Love (outside): The Giants coaching staff value what Julius Love brings to the table and I expect his role to remain the same and that will be a rover defensive back taking snaps at both the cornerback and safety positions.
- Isaac Yiadom (outside): As of right now Yiadom gets the nod over a couple of cornerbacks on the bubble; especially 6th round pick Rodarius Williams. However; this could change once training camp begins and the competition heats up. Williams has the best change among the other corners to un-seed Yiadom and make the final roster; especially if Yiadom becomes a cap casulty.
On The Outside Looking In
- Quincy Wilson: Wilson only has two options; practice squad or being cut.
- Montre Hartage: Hartage has only two options; practice squad or being cut.
- Chris Milton: Milton has only two options; practice squad or being cut.
- Madre Harper: Harper has only two options; practice squad or being cut.
- Rodarius Williams: Williams has the best chance to make the opening day roster. If not, he should start the season on the practice squad.
- Jarren Williams: Williams has only two options; practice squad or being cut.
- Joshua Kalu: Kalu could be placed on the practice squad.
- Sam Beal: Beal will have an uphill battle to make the final roster after the drafting of Aaron Robinson and could be looking for a new home in 2021.
Similar to the safety position, this group of cornerbacks has talent and for the 1st time in a very long time; the Giants have two starting cornerbacks that could shut down any opposing receiver on any given Sunday. Once again, avoiding the injury bug is essential as it is for any team. This group should be fun watch and give the Giants the best overall talent at the cornerback position they have had in a long time.