Paulson Adebo’s Transition with the Giants

When the Saints drafted Paulson Adebo in 2021, there was no immediate pressure for him to step up as the leading cornerback. That role was safely held by Marshon Lattimore, a three-time Pro Bowler who made quite a name for himself during his early career. Adebo, meanwhile, was still finding his footing.

In the following four years, New Orleans primarily kept Adebo on the left side, with Lattimore positioned on the right.

“It wasn’t really a choice I made,” Adebo mentioned recently, reflecting on how the situation unfolded.

Pro Football Focus indicates that during his first four seasons, Adebo was on the left side for about 94.4% of his snaps. He also noted that even back in his college days at Stanford, he was predominantly placed on the left, aside from rare instances when facing off against larger receivers.

As of now, however, the Giants lack a star cornerback to pair with Adebo. With a fresh $54 million, three-year contract, Adebo now finds himself as their top option. He’s moved through training camp without competing against other cornerbacks, as the depth chart leaves much to be desired with names like Deonte Banks and Cor’dale Flott.

This change comes with its pressures right from the start.

If the Giants choose to use Adebo as a shadow on opposing receivers—like Garrett Wilson during joint practices with the Jets—he’s open to that role. “It was somewhat of a stretch to switch sides in New Orleans,” he explained. “I believe I can play on both sides, so it’s not a major concern for me.”

Utilizing Adebo to shadow receivers could actually benefit the Giants. This approach would prevent opposing teams from merely matching their best receiver against the second cornerback. It keeps Adebo active across the field while determining his matchups.

Defensive coordinator Shane Bowen’s game plan may not be entirely clear at the beginning of the regular season. The Giants could be facing notable threats early on, including Terry McLaurin and the Cowboys’ CeeDee Lamb. If Adebo can emerge as the defensive anchor, like Lattimore once did, he could change the game for the Giants.

Adebo’s coach, Brian Daboll, expressed confidence in his abilities and was glad to ask him for versatility.

Last season, Adebo had a difficult stint, playing just seven games due to a femur injury, yet he managed to make an impact with 43 tackles and 10 passes defended. With the Giants, he aims to boost those numbers and provide the turnovers their defense desperately needs.

In practice, he’s already putting in the work to improve by matching up against standout receiver Malik Nabers.

His position seems pretty set, although the finer details of his responsibilities remain a bit cloudy for now.

“There are definitely skilled players who might offer something unique,” Adebo acknowledged. “But my perspective is that as long as you know the challenge ahead, you just have to tackle it head-on.”