This is often a familiar line of questioning.
When asked about his hands—like his ability to catch a football—Tyler Nubin confidently replies that they’re just fine, thanks. But that sentiment contrasts starkly with what can often be seen in training camps, where defensive players struggle to secure the ball, leading to not-so-kind remarks. After all, that’s why he plays defensive back instead of wide receiver.
Nubin seems to brush off this kind of criticism.
“I’m really confident, very confident,” he said when asked about his catching ability.
And he has good reason to be. During his five years at Minnesota, he recorded 13 interceptions in 55 games. This knack for making big plays was one reason why the Giants selected him in the second round of the 2024 draft.
Last season, he started the first 13 games of his rookie year before an injury cut it short. At that time, he was leading the team with 98 tackles.
However, he did not secure a single interception.
Looking back on that rookie season, Nubin is determined not to go another full year without an interception. “I believe in myself more than anyone else,” he stated.
“It’s just football, just a game. I don’t get too hung up on previous stats because there’s always a new year ahead. I’m not worried about it.”
This offseason saw significant changes in the Giants’ secondary, with new additions like cornerback Paulson Adebo and safety Jevon Holland.
Adebo tallied ten interceptions with the Saints, while Holland had five with the Dolphins. Something definitely had to shift in the Giants’ defensive backfield, especially after they went through 11 consecutive games last season without an interception, which is less than ideal.
Nubin recognizes the need for improvement.
“I’m in an attacking mindset, and that’s my main goal—just doing my job every day,” he explained. “I know it’s coming. I’m not too worried about it.”
He focuses on instinct and being in the right place at the right time to read the quarterback and make a play.
With Holland’s arrival, who usually plays deep safety, Nubin might find himself lining up closer to the line of scrimmage more often, which could create more chances for interceptions.
Veteran wide receiver Darius Slayton weighed in on the defensive backfield, highlighting both Nubin and Holland.
“It starts with those two,” Slayton remarked. “Nub is tough. He’s physical and intense. Holland adds a great range to our defense, and his ability to track deep balls was impressive during camp.”
Nubin is part of a promising draft class from 2024 and knows that receivers like Malik Nabers and Tyrone Tracy Jr. will be trying to break through their defense.
“I have a lot of personal goals this year, but I’ll keep them to myself,” Nubin said. “I want my play to speak for me, and let everyone judge what it means at the end.”
“I aim to be an impact player, and that’s something I take pride in. I’ll step up when it matters most.”
