The competition for the New York Giants' starting outside cornerback roles remains undecided as the team approaches the regular season. Greg Newsome II, Deonte Banks, and Paulson Adebo are rotating with the first-team defense, with rookie Colton Hood also rejoining drills after an injury.
Defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson stated that the players are focusing on the details of their work and that everyone is competing for playing time. Wilson has not finalized whether starters will receive the majority of snaps or if the team will utilize a rotation similar to that seen early last season. "Everything hasn’t been finalized," Wilson said.
Deonte Banks has emerged as a notable contender in the group. Last season, the Giants adjusted their approach to ensure Banks, along with Cor’Dale Flott and Adebo, received playing time despite struggles. "He just has belief in himself right now," Wilson commented on Banks. "He has a good group of DB coaches in that room that believe in him. The players believe in him."
The versatility of Chauncey Golston, who can play backup edge and defensive line, offers roster flexibility ahead of player cuts. Wilson described the defense as "positionless," emphasizing that players who can perform multiple roles increase their opportunities. "The more you can do, the more opportunities you get to play. And Chauncey’s a very consistent player. He plays with great technique and detail, and you see it every day," Wilson added.
In the return game, Braxton Berrios' position has strengthened following a potentially season-ending injury to Calvin Austin III. Berrios, a former All-Pro returner, has shown he can still be effective. Special teams coordinator Chris Horton highlighted Berrios' ability to field the ball cleanly as his most important attribute, noting that his ability to make players miss after the catch is an added benefit. "In the return game, it starts with just fielding the ball, right?" Horton said. "That’s the most important thing. He’s a clean catcher. That’s first and foremost. And anything we get after that is a plus. He can still run. He can still make guys miss."