4 NY Giants Players on defense who must rise to the occassion in Week 1

3. CB Aaron Robinson

Adoree’ Jackson is comfortably locked in as the Giants’ No. 1 starting quarterback. But after Jackson, there are questions to be asked regarding the cornerback position. During training camp, Darnay Holmes flashed. Holmes looked elite at times, making big plays on multiple occasions. But the Giants seem content with having Holmes as their slot corner.

For the time being, Aaron Robinson will be the Giants’ CB2. This will be Robinson’s first time heading into the season starting. With the departure of Bradberry, Robinson was pushed into a starting role. During Robinson’s rookie season, he appeared in nine games, including two starts. He recorded 26 total tackles and one defended pass.

Throughout the offseason, expectations for Robinson reached all-time highs. He seemed like he was ready to take on his new role.But during the preseason, Robinson struggled heavily. He was targeted early and often. He recorded seven tackles while earning a PFF defensive grade of 33.4.

His struggles raise concern for this defense. If he isn’t able to step up his play during the regular season, this unit could be in trouble. When looking past Robinson, the cornerback depth is not there. Rookie cornerback Cor’dale Flott is slated as the team’s backup across the board. An injury to either Jackson or Robinson would put Flott into a role that he doesn’t yet seem prepared for.

Robinson having a big game in Week 1 is exactly what he needs. If he struggles, the Giants could opt to trade for a cornerback with some of the money that they have recently freed up.