No. 1 best: James Bradberry, 2020
While Martinez was the leader of the team’s defense, arguably their best player was former Carolina Panther, James Bradberry. After being drafted by Gettleman in 2016 while he was the Panthers’ general manager, the two were reunited when he brought him to New York via a three year, $45 million contract last off-season.
With Gettleman’s past of bringing in former Panthers players, questions persisted on whether Bradberry was worth number one corner money. Quickly, those questions were emphatically answered with a yes.
The Giants’ number one corner had a tremendous season – three interceptions, two forced fumbles and 18 passes defensed. The league began to take notice, as Bradberry was selected for his first ever Pro Bowl as well.
Perhaps the biggest sign for how important Bradberry was to the Giants’ defense was the Week 15 game against the Cleveland Browns – the game he missed due to COVID-19 protocol. With the corner missing the game, Graham was forced to switch his entire defense – showing just how much he means to their game-plan.
Bradberry wasn’t heralded when he signed with the Giants, but he’s put the league on notice since his arrival. Gettleman had faith in a player he’s believed in since he was drafted – Bradberry rewarded that faith by becoming his best signing as Giants’ general manager.