3 under-the-radar players who can help the NY Giants defense out in 2022

2 of 3

CINCINNATI, OH – NOVEMBER 29: Darnay Holmes #30 of the New York Giants defends in the secondary against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paul Brown Stadium on November 29, 2020 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Jamie Sabau/Getty Images) /

2. CB Darnay Holmes

With the departure of James Bradberry, the Giants have lost one of their best players on defense. While there will be big shoes to fill, third-year cornerback Darnay Holmes could be just the defensive back to do it.

Since entering the NFL in 2020, Holmes has shown flashes of how good he can be. He has played in 23 games for the Giants and has started nine total. In that time, he has recorded 59 total tackles, two interceptions and seven pass deflections.

Holmes played a total of 282 defensive snaps in 2021. When in coverage, he was targeted a total of 30 times. He allowed 21 receptions for just 220 yards and zero touchdowns. With the CB1 spot currently being held down by Adoree’ Jackson, the CB2 spot is still up in the air. Given the overall lack of depth and veteran experience at the position, it will be expected to fall to either Holmes or rookie cornerback Cor’Dale Flott. Keep an eye on Aaron Robinson too.

While Flott or Robinson could potentially earn the spot during the offseason, giving it to Holmes could make more sense. Between his recent performances and actual NFL experience, he is currently the best man for the job. While he is a former fourth-round pick with just 23 games of experience, he has looked good at times. Given the expanded role, he could turn out to be a solid option at the position.

Home/NY Giants News