It was assumed that the New York Giants would feature first-round pick DeAndre Baker at the No. 2 corner spot opposite Janoris Jenkins in 2019, but Supplemental Draft pick Sam Beal might have thrown a wrench in that expected outcome.
Beal has looked fantastic so far during OTAs, but he has a long while to go before he can be considered an everyday starter. The reality is, Baker is far ahead of Beal, who’s coming off a shoulder surgery that ended his 2018 season before it even started.
The Georgia product is in a position to grab the starting job and hold on tight until he eventually takes the top role from Jenkins after his contract expires in 2020. DeAndre has already begun impression people around the Giants.
“No one seems to get very open on DeAndre Baker,†John Schmeelk of Giants.com wrote. “The young outside cornerbacks are showing promise and ability, and their development will continue in training camp as they figure out how much contact they can get away with beyond five yards.â€
The Miami native showed his efficiency in coverage last year, tallying two interceptions, a team-high 10 passes defended and a forced fumble for the Bulldogs. Opposing quarterbacks tended to shy away from the talented corner, as his physicality and speed make him a threat in the secondary.
At 5-11, 193-pounds, Baker is an aggressive player that will drive on the ball and stop receivers at the line of scrimmage. He’s deceivingly fast and can catch up in a hurry on deep passes. Look for him to experience a few growing pains early in the NFL career but progress quickly.
The Giants moved up into the first round to grab Baker, a player that will likely fit very well alongside Jenkins. The Giants’ veteran has taken on a leadership role thus far after a draft that saw Big Blue acquire three defensive backs.
Jenkins, a feisty corner that can stick with his man like glue will lock up the opposing team’s top receiver, while Baker will develop against the No. 2 pass-catcher. It’s the perfect process to catapult him into the No. 1 role after Janoris leaves the team.
The Giants will depend on these two talented corners to elevate a unit that ranked 23rd in pass yards per game (252.8( in 2018.