Headed into year three of his NFL career, Deonte Banks has been showing signs of encouragement following a rough sophomore campaign. The former Maryland standout was fantastic as a rookie playing in former defensive coordinator Wink Martindale’s aggressive, blitz-heavy system.
But when Martindale was fired and replaced by Shane Bowen, Banks struggled to adapt to his zone-heavy scheme. The 24-year-old allowed a 70.3% completion rate when targeted last season, and only forced one turnover. He was also benched several times due to his statistical regression, and loss of confidence
But early signs from OTAs suggest a turnaround could be on the horizon for the former-first round pick
Deonte Banks is already earning serious praise heading into Year 3
Bowen’s defenses tend to rely on the pass rush generating pressure to help the secondary, and Big Blue invested heavily to bolster the defense — both up front and in the secondary.
Factoring in the additions of Abdul Carter, Chauncey Golston, and Darius Alexander to the defensive line means Banks — and the secondary as a whole — are set up for success. Additionally, general manager Joe Schoen signed Paulson Adebo to a lucrative three-year deal to be the CB1 opposite Banks while bringing in Jevon Holland to replace the production of Xavier McKinney.
“I feel like both of them out there are going to be a very, very good tandem,” Bobby Okereke said of Banks and Adebo via Giants.com.
Bowen praised Banks’ early offseason performance during a Giants media session, stating, “He’s locked in in meetings,” while also commending his willingness to keep learning within the system.
“You notice him asking questions, wanting to know more, wanting to be more detailed with what we’re asking him to do,” Bowen continued. “I’m encouraged about the progress he’s made, hopefully we can continue this trajectory throughout the rest of the spring and into training camp.”
Even teammates have taken notice of what Banks has accomplished in OTAs. Despite being a newer Giant, Holland teased a breakout season coming for the Edgewood, Maryland native. “He's a character, but Tae has all the talent in the world, and I'm super excited about his upcoming season and what he's going to do. I think he's got great things in him,” Holland said.
Banks was fourth in the league in penalty yards per game last season, so his return to form is all about maintaining composure. Under the guidance of new defensive backs coach Marquand Manuel, he has an opportunity to clean up those mistakes and fulfill his potential.
Second-year slot cornerback Dru Phillips, who dazzled in his own rookie season, echoed Holland’s sentiment. “You can tell it's a different Tae this year,” he told the New York Post. “I want people to realize he's working and getting so much better in every aspect.”
With improved talent around him and a renewed mindset heading into his second season in Bowen’s system, Banks is in position to reestablish himself as a cornerstone of the Giants' defense.
