Deonte Banks admitted he was rusty after a standout rookie season and a tougher sophomore year, as the Giants edge closer to 2025 with a reshaped corner room. Paulson Adebo arrived in free agency to anchor outside coverage, shifting Banks from a presumed top role toward a learning curve as Cor'Dale Flott battles for snaps. The preseason opener against Buffalo exposed Banks’ ongoing ball-tracking and tackling issues, underscoring a critical juncture in his third NFL season.

With Adebo as a veteran foil, Banks, Flott, and the coaching staff are navigating a tighter rotation. Banks acknowledged the lack of tackling reps in camp and pointed to improvements in tracking and chest-to-chest play as a focus. The Giants’ defensive plan hinges on sharpening technique and consistency, which could influence Banks’ fantasy upside and the team’s overall pass defense in 2025.

Fantasy takeaway: Banks’ ceiling may hinge on Adebo’s fit and Flott’s development, potentially elevating the Giants’ nickel packages and limiting single-corner upside. A strong camp showing and situational role could push him back toward a larger share, especially if the defense lean on aggressiveness and ball-hawking tendencies in Bowen’s scheme. Monitor how the trio splits reps as camp progresses.

New Orleans Saints cornerback Alontae Taylor is garnering attention as a potential top 10 cornerback in the NFL, according to votes from executives within the league. Joining the ranks of successful Saints cornerbacks like Marshon Lattimore and Paulson Adebo, Taylor is seen as a key part of the team's future defensive strategy. Despite facing some inconsistencies, his raw talent and ability to perform at high levels have caught the eyes of league insiders.

The Saints have a history of nurturing talent in their defensive backfield, and with the emergence of players like Taylor, Rico Payton, Kool-Aid McKinstry, and Quincy Riley, the team is positioned to maintain competitive play in a crucial position. The upcoming season will be essential for Taylor to solidify his reputation and prove he belongs among the elite cornerbacks in the league.

The New York Giants' secondary has undergone significant changes following a challenging 3-14 season, which prompted a focus on key upgrades during the offseason. General Manager Joe Schoen made moves to enhance this critical unit by adding cornerback Paulson Adebo and safety Jevon Holland through substantial free-agent deals worth $54 million and $45 million, respectively. Despite these enhancements, Pro Football Focus has ranked the Giants' secondary at a concerning 24th overall among NFL teams.

The Giants have seen promising performances from rookies Andru Phillips and Tyler Nubin, who emerged as the top-graded players in the secondary for 2024. The potential for growth among the young core, combined with the contributions from Adebo and Holland, could see the Giants' secondary rise to prominence if they continue to develop effectively.

The New York Giants' defense is entering the upcoming season with a revamped roster aimed at making a significant leap in performance. Key additions include cornerback Paulson Adebo and safety Jevon Holland, both acquired during free agency, enhancing the team's secondary. Additionally, the Giants secured a potential star in the draft, selecting Abdul Carter with the third overall pick, who is expected to boost their pass rush. With these strategic moves, the Giants are positioning themselves among the top defenses expected to breakout in 2025.