It isn’t hyperbolic to suggest that if the New York Giants cannot improve their secondary in the offseason, the rest of their moves will not matter.
Between corners Deonte Banks, Adoree’ Jackson, Cor’Dale Flott, and a host of rotational defensive backs, the Giants struggled mightily on the boundary. It seemed like every top receiver had their way with Banks, particularly in the red zone, and there was no reinforcement to take the pressure off of him.
As effort inconsistencies amplified his poor second season, it became clear a new top corner would be a necessary addition in the spring.
Fortunately for general manager Joe Schoen, plenty of quality veteran options are available on the open market.
Subsequently, the Giants could be interested in signing first-round cornerback Byron Murphy Jr. in free agency.
Murphy, coming off a strong year in a dynamic Minnesota Vikings defense, is ESPN’s 20th-ranked free agent entering the new league year.
“Murphy's six interceptions tied for the third most in the league, and he has 14 over his six-year career,” Matt Bowen wrote. “With the ability to play on the perimeter or in the slot (259 snaps in 2024), Murphy has the backfield vision and short-area speed to close on the ball.”
He does his best work in zone coverage and set a career-high in interceptions (six) on his way to his first career Pro Bowl in 2024. He benefited from the rampant pressure of Brian Flores’ Minnesota defense but could find himself in a similar position if the Giants’ pass rush lives up to expectations.
“Sources say Murphy will be looking for a rather large raise from the two-year, $17.5 million deal he just played out in Minnesota,” Jeremy Fowler added. “He has played his way into bigger money.”
With his next contract likely landing between $15-20 million on an annual basis, New York has the room to add a top-flight corner and the pressing need pushing them closer to a splash in free agency.
Murphy may not be the corner of Schoen’s choosing, but from a need and scheme perspective, he makes a good amount of sense.
