The New York Giants' top priority this offseason is addressing the quarterback position. However, another area they must significantly improve is their secondary. The Giants’ cornerback room is depleted after Deonte Banks' underwhelming sophomore campaign, and there are question marks at free safety, with Jason Pinnock set to hit free agency.
With Pinnock and veteran cornerback Adoree' Jackson likely signing elsewhere, the Giants will have major voids to fill opposite strong safety Tyler Nubin and Banks. While the team could look to the NFL Draft for secondary help, signing a veteran defensive back and safety in free agency would bring the experience and leadership they desperately need.
Mason Cameron at Pro Football Focus recently analyzed the best landing spots for the top 15 defensive free agents. He highlighted the Giants’ secondary as a unit in dire need of reinforcements after finishing 26th in team coverage grade last season. Graham named San Francisco 49ers cornerback Charvarius Ward and safety Talanoa Hufanga as ideal fits for Big Blue.
The Giants are the best fit for Charvarius Ward and Talanoa Hufanga
Securing Charvarius Ward would be pivotal for the Giants' cornerback room. Ward would bring leadership and valuable experience to complement Banks, who remains unproven as a CB1. Throughout his career, Ward has allowed just 0.83 yards per coverage snap in Cover-3, making him a strong schematic fit for Shane Bowen’s defensive system.
While Ward would be an excellent addition to help revitalize the Giants’ secondary, questions remain about his ability to generate turnovers after finishing this past season without an interception. Even so, Ward impressed with 54 total tackles and seven passes defended in 2024. The former Pro Bowler is expected to sign a contract similar to his last deal with the 49ers, worth $40.5 million over three years.
On the other hand, Talanoa Hufanga has established himself as one of the most dynamic safeties in the league since being selected in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft. He earned All-Pro honors during his sophomore campaign, tallying four interceptions and nine of his 14 career passes defended. Hufanga currently has seven career interceptions, adding three more in 2023.
However, Hufanga’s recent injury history could concern some teams. The 24-year-old has missed 19 games over the last two seasons due to a wrist injury and a torn ACL. Still, Hufanga’s versatility and playmaking ability make him an enticing option for the Giants. He would be a perfect fit under recently hired safeties coach Marquand Manuel, formerly of the Jets.
With the Giants’ defense recording just five interceptions in 2024—the second-lowest total in the league—adding Ward and Hufanga could transform their secondary. These potential signings would bring stability and spark to New York’s defensive backfield, setting the stage for a much-improved 2025 season.