The NY Giants weren’t expected to be big players in free agency, but the front office flipped the script throughout the process, which continued with the addition of cornerback Adoree Jackson.
After locking up Leonard Williams, the team’s best defensive player, and Kenny Golladay, the best available wide receiver – they made another splash.
Former Tennessee Titans first round pick, defensive back Adoree’ Jackson, joined the team on a four-year contract worth up to $39 million, sources confirm to GMenHQ’s Matt Lombardo.
Jackson shot up draft boards in 2017 due to his tremendous play as a member of the USC Trojans – play that earned him the Jim Thorpe Award as the nation’s top defensive back. He possessed blazing speed and game-changing big play ability – something that was continually on display as a member of the Titans.
Jackson has a great relationship with his former teammate, current Giants’ safety, Logan Ryan. The former USC standout was something of a protege to the two-time Super Bowl Champion, Ryan saying they ‘bonded a lot’ during their time together.
After watching players like Corey Ballentine, Ryan Lewis and Isaac Yiadom fill the position in 2020, Jackson is unquestionably an upgrade.
Here is a breakdown of the good, and the bad of the NY Giants signing of Adoree’ Jackson, as well as a grade for the move:
The good:
Entering free agency, the Giants’ biggest hole on defense was the position of cornerback outside their pro bowler, James Bradberry. It doomed them on occasions – images of Carson Wentz’ deep shots on Thursday Night Football come to mind.
The National Football League is a passing league – your secondary has to be strong if you want to win in this age. Adding Adoree’ Jackson to a secondary that already features Bradberry, Logan Ryan, Jabrill Peppers, Darnay Holmes and Xavier McKinney gives New York one of the league’s best units.
Quarterbacks avoided Bradberry when they could last season – picking on Ballentine, Lewis and Yiadom. With Jackson in the mix, offenses will be hard-pressed to find an easy-out.
Jackson also gives the Giants’ another weapon in the kick-return game. He’s electrified before at special teams – a unit near and dear to coach Joe Judge’s heart. With Peppers and Jackson to go along with receivers Dante Pettis and John Ross, the battle to see who will return kicks for New York will be one of the most interesting of training camp.
The CB2 position was a huge need for the Giants, and they just signed the best option available. Another one of the team’s holes filled by a player who can make an impact from day one.