The New York Giants moved into the back-end of the first round to snag Georgia cornerback DeAndre Baker in an attempt to revitalize the secondary. With Janoris Jenkins the No. 1 option and a lack of true talent behind him, Baker immediately became the expected starter opposite the veteran.
However, Supplemental Draft pick Sam Beal also has the potential to play an impactful role in the future, if not in 2019. Beal missed time during OTAs and minicamp due to a personal reason, which set him back behind Baker who has looked fantastic in non-physical shadow covering.
The expectation, though, is that Beal will sit in a reserve role — the next man up player in front of Corey Ballentine. He did have a solid offseason while present, showing good ability in coverage and speed. His shoulder surgery in 2018 does not seem to have left any negative side-affects.
The question is — is Baker and Beal the future at corner for the New York Giants?
At this point, Baker seems to be in line to take over the top spot after Jenkins’ contract ends in 2020 or is traded next season for draft assets. Beal has the potential to emerge as the No. 2 in the future alongside Baker, but he still needs time to develop his game and refine his technique.
The one thing that has impressed me had been his leadership so far, and while he hasn’t played any meaningful snaps, just as the current rookies, that hasn’t stopped him from passing on the advice the veterans gave him last year.
“When they came in, I had to explain something to them. Just because I haven’t played doesn’t mean I can’t coach them too. When they came around, I gave them some advice, just like the older guys gave me. Coach let us know the same thing, help the younger guys even though I’m a young guy too. I’ve been here, so I have to help them,” he said.
The film he has watched will pay dividends in his progression but he still requires the physical reps to apply the mental knowledge he has gained. It will be interesting to see his development and if he can play an influential role in 2019 — the hope is he can become the No. 2 option when Baker likely takes over for Jenkins in the future.