4 NY Giants we want to see more of at OTAs

2. S Dane Belton

Following the loss of Julian Love this offseason, the Giants have a new hole at safety. While they have Xavier McKinney at one spot, there are several questions surrounding who will be playing opposite of him in the secondary. Some of the candidates on the Giants roster include Jason Pinnock, who ESPN currently has listed as the starter, Bobby McCain, Dane Belton, and Gervarrius Owens.

While there are pros and cons to starting really anyone at safety, it seems as if Belton stands out among the rest. Not only does he arguably have the highest ceiling, but his abilities in coverage paired next to McKinney could make for an elite duo in the secondary. Having a run-stopping safety is nice, but in the modern NFL two coverage guys are nearly necessary.

In his rookie season, Belton racked up 29 combined tackles and two interceptions, while allowing 16 receptions on 24 targets for 194 yards and zero touchdowns. Belton certainly struggled in the run game, but he showed tons of flashes in coverage. This isn't surprising, as that's what his specialty was coming out of college.

Belton has the chance to be a big-time player for this Giants' defense if he can continue to progress as an all-around safety. Don't be surprised if someone like McCain starts Week 1, but Belton certainly has all the tools to be a great safety in this league.