Paulson Adebo has pointed out that the Giants haven’t made any nominations for a cornerback to play opposite him.
“Both players deserve a chance,” Adebo shared. “Throughout OTAs and training camp, they were competing and making plays. From what I’ve seen since arriving here, I definitely expect to see a starter.”
Last summer, the Giants realized their plan to start with a different player and Flotte wasn’t going to work out.
They required more from Adoree’ Jackson after training camp.
Adebo joined the team in March through a three-year, $54 million free-agent contract to deal with tough matchups like Terry McLaurin from the Commanders.
This situation leaves Frotto, a third-round pick in 2022, and Banks, a first-round pick in 2023, in close competition, allowing both to be listed as starters on this week’s unofficial depth chart.
“Starting means a lot to me,” Frotto expressed. “It shows the defense trusts me, and the coaches do too. But I’ll do whatever the team needs.”
One issue with comparing this season to past ones is that both Banks and Frotto have largely been absent from the field together during the preseason due to health.
During the preseason, Banks played in his first game while Frotto sat out, then Frotto took the field for the next two games while Banks was absent.
At Thursday’s practice, Banks participated in individual drills alongside Adebo and slot cornerback Dru Phillips, while Frotto worked with Nic Jones and Art Green.
Defensive coordinator Shane Bowen acknowledged they both missed time but emphasized that they performed well when they were available, suggesting it’s enough to determine who might start on Sunday.
Frotto, who’s played various positions in his time with the Giants, has had a strong preseason so far, and both he and Banks have been healthy since August 24th.
“Building chemistry with teammates was important for me,” Frotto noted. “It helps as I learn how offenses approach, my leverage when in coverage, and whatnot.”
Bowen mentioned that he hasn’t typically used this strategy of rotating players, but he thinks it could work against the Commanders.
Establishing a rhythm might be tricky.
“It could be a challenge, but it’s all about your mentality,” Frotto said. “I stay alert and keep my feet warmed up by watching the game.”
This situation could change from week to week, primarily early in the season, depending on opponents and matchups.
Bowen remarked on how it’s a league of matchups, hinting that each week is a new challenge.
If Adebo ends up facing McLaurin, it could set the stage for one of the more interesting matchups—facing the physically adept Deebo Samuel in the Commanders’ first game.
“He can break away quickly,” Adebo pointed out. “But what’s impressive is his strength to push through tackles after the catch.”
Banks showed significant growth in his performance last season.
Defensive back coach Jerome Henderson has pushed Banks to improve his tackling efforts after some missed opportunities that affected his role. Unfortunately, Banks wasn’t available for comment on Thursday.
Your decision to have competition for starting roles—especially between Banks and Frotto—reflects the Giants’ approach to growth and maturity without just handing out positions. It has made for some interesting dynamics since spring.
“Whenever I have a good team, I strive to have multiple cornerbacks ready,” said Bowen. “The season is quite long.”
