New York Giants: One lowkey cornerback is making waves early in summer

New York Giants, Ryan Lewis
Oct 4, 2020; Inglewood, California, USA: New York Giants defensive backs Madre Harper (45), Nate Ebner (43), James Bradberry (24) and Ryan Lewis (37) take the field durig pregame warmups before playing the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports

The New York Giants completely upgraded their secondary this past off-season, signing Adoree Jackson to a three-year, $39 million deal. Pairing Jackson with James Bradberry should give the Giants an elite duo at cornerback, with two players capable of exposing mismatches with opposite strengths.

However, quality depth is essential in the secondary, and the Giants have several players who could fill roles if need be. Ranging from Julian Love to second-year player Madre Harper, Big Blue has enough talent to supplement any losses if need be.

Harper, who spent the 2020 season with a Giants featured in nine games, recording five tackles and recorded one fumble recovery. At 6’2″ and 190 pounds, Harper has adequate size for a CB.

“The second-year cornerback opened some eyes this spring,” reports ESPN’s Jordan Raanan. “He came in bulked-up and in great shape, and took advantage of a mostly vacant defensive backfield during OTAs when most of the Giants’ cornerbacks didn’t attend. That created an opportunity Harper took advantage of this spring. After being signed off the Raiders’ practice squad early last season, Harper is one to watch this year. He has the size and skill set this coaching staff will find ways to use.”

The New York Giants might have something in Harper:

Madre spends time with Logan Ryan down in Tampa, partaking in personalized drills with the majority of the secondary. Having mentors and leaders to help develop his game and Ryan, Jackson, and Bradberry, the trickle-down effect should influence his game positively.

Last season, Harper hit the injured list in December, squandering any chance of him getting significant snaps, especially with a deficiency at CB2. Harper is currently on a one-year deal worth 780K, and he will undoubtedly be fighting for a roster spot this summer. With the Giants drafting Rodarius Williams and Aaron Robinson, Harper will have to fight his way onto the roster, but he’s already started off in good shape, making waves during our OTAs and minicamp.