Giants facing bold offseason decision on former first-round pick

There is plenty of blame to go around for the New York Giants having one of their worst seasons as a franchise. They finished 3-14 in 2024, which included a franchise-record 10-game losing streak. From the offense being one of the league's worst to the defense falling short of expectations after high hopes and questionable coaching decisions, it was truly a season to forget for Big Blue.

While the offense was considered New York's biggest weakness heading into the season—especially after their top offensive weapon, Saquon Barkley, departed for the Philadelphia Eagles—the defense had its fair share of struggles as well.

One glaring issue was the secondary, particularly with 2023 first-round pick Deonte Banks, who had a very disappointing season at the cornerback position. Despite it being just his second year in the league, the Giants must seriously consider moving on from him sooner rather than later.

The time has come for the Giants to cut ties with Deonte Banks

After a promising rookie season in which he recorded two interceptions in 15 games played, it initially seemed like Banks was the right choice for the G-MEN at 25th overall. However, his second year in the league was marred by negative headlines, raising questions about his long-term future with the team.

Banks' 2024 season was filled with lowlights, including being hurdled by Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris during a primetime matchup in Week 8. He was also benched during the same game for a perceived lack of effort, a troubling sign for a former first-round pick.

On the year, Banks failed to record a single interception. Pro Football Focus assigned him a dismal overall grade of 50.9, ranking 182nd out of 223 cornerbacks across the league. This season was meant to showcase Banks as a cornerstone of the secondary following the departure of Pro Bowl safety Xavier McKinney, but instead, it highlighted his inability to rise to the occasion.

Consistency has been his biggest hurdle. While his rookie campaign showed flashes of potential, year two showed anything but. Banks allowed 49 catches for 689 yards and six touchdowns this season, numbers that reflect poorly on a player the Giants hoped would be a defensive stalwart.

Although Banks still has time to grow and develop into a productive cornerback in the league, the Giants cannot afford to wait any longer, especially given John Mara's pointed comments during his end-of-the-year press conference on Monday.

The scheme change under defensive coordinator Shane Bowen also appeared to impact Banks’ performance. The increased reliance on zone coverage didn’t play to his strengths and it showed on the field. For a first-round pick, the inability to adapt is a significant red flag and raises concerns about his future role in the defense.

For Banks, a fresh start might be in his best interest as well. Sometimes, a change of scenery can help a player regain confidence and rediscover their potential. However, the Giants can no longer afford to wait and see if that transformation will happen under their watch.

If the Giants truly want to move past their recent struggles and restore their winning tradition, parting ways with Deonte Banks is a decision they need to seriously consider this offseason. It’s time for Big Blue to focus on players who can contribute consistently and make a meaningful impact on the field.