New York Giants rookie Yusuf Corker could make a surprising impact in the 2022 season. As an undrafted rookie, expectations for Corker are low. However, the Kentucky product has turned heads during training camp and seems to be on his way toward earning a regular-season roster spot.
The Giants signed Yusuf Corker earlier this offseason after he surprisingly went undrafted in the 2022 NFL Draft. Corker was projected as a fifth-round pick in this year’s class. New York was thin in their secondary after seeing a number of defensive backs depart this offseason. Starters from the 2021 season like Jabrill Peppers, Logan Ryan, and James Bradberry all left this year. Yusuf Corker could be an under-the-radar acquisition that makes an impact for Big Blue this season.
What Yusuf Corker is bringing to the New York Giants
New York Giants rookie safety Yusuf Corker has been making plays in training camp. He has been so impressive, in fact, that Corker was designated as a defensive play-caller for the Giants in their preseason opener against the New England Patriots. Corker has been wearing the green dot for the Giants’ second-team defense in camp.
Yusuf Corker’s ability to command the defense and lead the team has been noticeable. He seems to be securing a role in Wink Martindale’s defense and could provide the Giants with a decent backup option in the secondary.
The Giants are getting a physical box safety in Yusuf Corker. The rookie can lay the boom and plays violently while crashing down to make stops in the running game. Corker contributed to a crucial run stop during the Giants’ first preseason game last week. He totaled two tackles in the game.
Yusuf Corker was a starter in the SEC for three years with Kentucky. During that time, his tackles total was greater than 70 all three years and he even reached an impressive career-high 82 total tackles as a senior in 2021. He also recorded three interceptions combined with 6.5 tackles for loss and 18 passes defended.
The New York Giants are building a new foundation this year. With a completely revamped front office and coaching staff, Joe Schoen, Brian Daboll, and company will need their rookie and young players to step up immediately. It is exciting to see an undrafted rookie in Yusuf Corker performing above all expectations.