Deonte Banks has emerged as a focal point of criticism for the New York Giants’ struggling defense. Experts suggest that opposing teams can exploit the Giants simply by targeting Banks and his fellow cornerbacks. This claim was highlighted by an unnamed NFL Defensive coach during a discussion with ESPN’s Jordan Raanan.
Defensive Vulnerabilities Highlighted
The unnamed coach criticized the Giants’ cornerbacks, particularly Deonte Banks and Cor’Dale Flott. Both players, drafted within the last two years, have been pointed out for their tackling deficiencies. The coach noted, “Every team in the league runs crack-toss against them over and over again,” showcasing the predictable weaknesses in the Giants’ defensive strategy.
Recent Performance Concerns
- In Week 16, Banks was replaced after struggling to support against the run during a close game against the Vikings.
- He lost his starting position earlier in the season due to questions about his maturity and commitment to tackling.
- His inconsistency has led to Flott being viewed as a more dependable option, despite similar issues.
As the Giants prepare for their upcoming match against the Las Vegas Raiders, Banks’ performance will be under scrutiny. The Raiders boast rookie Ashton Jeanty, a dynamic running back who has proven capable of exploitative plays. Jeanty’s impressive performance last week, which included a 128-yard game, raises concerns about the Giants’ ability to contain him.
The Impact of Poor Recruitment
The Giants’ defensive shortfalls can be traced back to ineffective recruitment strategies under general manager Joe Schoen. Banks and fellow 2022 draft pick Evan Neal are considered significant disappointments. The defense, which is supposed to be bolstered by high draft picks, has not performed up to expectations.
Concerns Extending Beyond Cornerbacks
The tackling issues are not limited to the cornerbacks. Tyler Nubin, a safety who was also chosen in the 2023 draft, has recorded ten missed tackles against the run, further amplifying the defensive woes. The need for recruitment of physical players to reinforce the Giants’ defense is essential moving forward.
Looking Ahead
The forthcoming game against the Raiders may present challenges for Deonte Banks and the entire Giants’ defense. As the team considers strategic changes, the pressure builds on Banks to improve his performance. NFL experts suggest that the Giants should focus on reinforcing their defense to mitigate the impact of talented offensive players like Jeanty.
