Sometimes, it’s not about a complete rebuild—just making the right move at the right time.
For the New York Giants, improving the secondary didn’t mean pursuing big-name free agents. Instead, it was about identifying a player who could subtly transform a struggling unit.
That player is Paulson Adebo.
His signing this offseason may not have grabbed major headlines, but it could end up being the most impactful decision the Giants made. Deonte Banks needed support—now he has it.
Thrown into the spotlight as the team’s top cornerback last season, Banks had a tough learning curve. He struggled in man coverage, gave up chunk plays, and often looked overmatched. But his physical tools and potential are undeniable.
What he lacked was a veteran presence to lean on—someone to share the load and allow him to grow at a more sustainable pace.
That’s exactly what Adebo brings.
When healthy, he’s a legitimate top-tier cornerback who now steps into the CB1 role. This shift lets Banks cover secondary receivers—not a demotion, but a chance to catch his breath, learn, and evolve.
High Risk, High Reward: Adebo’s Game Brings an Edge
Adebo isn’t the type to play conservatively—and that’s part of his strength.
In 2023, he played 948 snaps, gave up 753 yards, but also recorded four interceptions and 11 pass deflections.
He’s a boom-or-bust defender—capable of surrendering a big play, then flipping the momentum with a game-changing pick. Even in an injury-shortened season last year (just 436 snaps), he notched three interceptions, seven pass breakups, and allowed only one touchdown.
Now healthy and entering his prime at 25, Adebo gives the Giants more than a reliable corner—he gives them a potential game-changer.
A Contract That Works for Now and Later
Adebo inked a three-year, $54 million deal with $38.5 million guaranteed. It’s a sizable investment, but not a financial burden.
There’s a team-friendly out after two seasons, carrying just $5 million in dead cap if they decide to move on.
If Adebo performs as hoped, the $19 million cap hit in Year 3 could actually become a value deal in an escalating market.
It’s a well-structured contract—balancing risk with significant upside.
A Better Pass Rush Helps Everyone
The Giants didn’t just upgrade the secondary—they enhanced the defensive front as well, which should create more pressure on quarterbacks.
A stronger pass rush leads to faster decisions from opposing offenses, fewer clean throws, and more chances for defensive backs to make plays.
Adebo’s ball-hawking instincts thrive in that kind of environment.
And for Banks, it means less exposure and more favorable matchups, helping him continue to develop without being overburdened.
A Secondary Built to Contend
This overhaul wasn’t just about adding names—it was about constructing a unit that works together.
With Adebo, Banks, and newly acquired safety Javon Holland, the Giants now have a secondary that can compete with anyone, adapt to different looks, and make life difficult for even elite passing attacks.
They didn’t just get more talented—they got more strategic.
And if Adebo delivers on his potential, this quiet offseason move could turn out to be one of the most savvy pickups of the year.