The Giants have put $99 million into two free agents and spent high draft picks on four young players to enhance their secondary.
It’s a complicated calculus—not just numbers, but strategy—where the Giants are struggling to see a return on their defensive investments.
“It feels like we’re playing some of the toughest positions,” said Safety Tyler Nubin. “One mistake can lead to either a touchdown or significant yardage. We really need to improve.”
Nubin struggled with leverage during a play that allowed Rashid Shaheed to score an 87-yard touchdown in the team’s recent loss to the Saints. This brought to mind earlier moments when he misjudged his assignments against both the Cowboys and the Chargers.
“We try to emphasize the fundamentals through various drills,” defensive coordinator Shane Bowen explained.
When the Giants are positioned correctly, they seem to have a better chance of making plays.
Dru Phillips leads the NFL with eight passes deflected, including two interceptions, but he also holds the distinction of being among the most penalized defensive players in the league.
Rotation cornerback Deonte Banks is flagged frequently; in fact, he’s one of the league’s most penalized per snap, having been penalized four times in 100 snaps, compared to Phillips’ six in 275.
The penalties contribute to a concerning average of 237.2 passing yards conceded per game. If the coverage falters, even a strong pass rush can be neutralized with a quick throw.
“We need to cut down on the penalties,” Bowen stated. “Whether we slip or not, we have to avoid unnecessary contact and focus on what we can control. I believe the guys are, despite the challenges.”
Free agent signings like cornerback Paulson Adebo (three years, $54 million) and safety Jevón Holland (three years, $45 million) haven’t made the impact that was hoped. They’ve only defended six passes together.
Nubin, meanwhile, has managed just one pass defended over 1,144 snaps.
“They’ve been competitive,” Coach Brian Daboll said referring to the secondary. “We’ve had lapses, like with Shaheed’s big play, and it’s something we want to rectify. Even after five turnovers, I thought they kept battling against a tough opponent.”
The ongoing rotation between Frotto and Banks continues to puzzle some, especially given the latter’s appearance in the games.
One theory suggests they’re cautious about adding another first-round pick like offensive tackle Evan Neal to the defense. There’s also pressure to develop other former picks like Flott, whom they need to see progress from.
“These players are judged on their performance here; that’s how it works. Every day we talk about finding the right fit to help us succeed,” Bowen noted.
There might be changes ahead as Bowen considers adjustments in the weekly lineup, having given Banks fewer defensive snaps in the last game.
There’s also speculation that Flott’s reduced workload is to protect him, given his previous hamstring issues.
“He could tighten up if pushed too hard in coverage,” Bowen advised.
“Frotto has made significant strides this offseason; he earned the right to play. Both players have shown marked development,” Bowen added.
The Giants need to see more progress—quickly.
