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3 Ways Xavier McKinney can reach his potential as NY Giants’ breakout star

By John Esposito

Jan 3, 2021; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Giants safety Xavier McKinney (29) intercepts a pass in the end zone intended for Dallas Cowboys tight end Dalton Schultz (86) in the second half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 3, 2021; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Giants safety Xavier McKinney (29) intercepts a pass in the end zone intended for Dallas Cowboys tight end Dalton Schultz (86) in the second half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dan Arnold of the Cardinals makes this catch in front of Xavier McKinney of the Giants but the catch was over turned on a replay review in the first half as the Arizona Cardinals played the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ on December 13, 2020.The Arizona Cardinals Vs New York Giants At Metlife Stadium In East Rutherford Nj On December 13 2020 /

Versatility

Listed as a safety, which is also McKinney’s natural position; McKinney played well enough in the slot, covering for an injured Darnay Holmes last year.

While injured he studied the defense Defensive Coordinator Patrick Graham runs and was able to jump into any role necessary to get on the field.

With Jabrill Peppers and Logan Ryan entrenched in the pure “safety” role, throwing Julian Love as well; McKinney is versatile enough to stay on the field if the Giants play a three safety look.  He could be very valuable in the “Moneybacker” position and be able to use that versatility to allow Graham to run many defenses that could confuse an opponents offense.

McKinney’s tackling is sure, and he is not afraid to come up and make a hit. As a young player, he was responsible for making secondary adjustments which shows his overall intelligence and preparation for the game.

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