New York Giants’ cornerback DeAndre Baker has been dealing with legal issues the past few months, and with reports indicating he could be exonerated of charges regarding an armed robbery case, the narrative has changed drastically. On Friday afternoon, Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News reported that Baker was charged with four counts of robbery with a firearm, per Broward State Attorney Mike Satz.
Leonard also stated that if he were convicted, the robbery with a firearm would mandate a minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison.
It is crazy to think just several months ago Baker was slotted to be the Giants’ No. 2 corner on the roster after coming off a tough 2019 campaign. Clearly, Baker had different plans for his career, putting himself in a bad situation that could cost him his future.
The New York Giants had high hopes for Baker:
At just 22 years old, Baker entered the NFL with red flags concerning his character, but general manager Dave Gettleman saw the upside of his talent and took a chance in the first round. After just one season of lackluster play, Baker was expected to take a major step forward in a Patrick Graham lead defense. Graham utilizes plenty of man coverage, which Baker excels in.
Last season, former defensive coordinate or James Bettcher utilized zone coverage more frequently, which put Baker in a tough spot. An expected elevation in 2020 was the reason for excitement, but now DeAndre is facing life in prison. With a friend being instructed to shoot a partygoer, Baker was that close to facing the death penalty in this situation.
BREAKING NEWS: #Giants corner DeAndre Baker has been charged with four counts of robbery with a firearm, per Broward State Attorney Mike Satz. If convicted, the punishment for robbery with a firearm is a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in state prison.
— Pat Leonard (@PLeonardNYDN) August 7, 2020