3. Safety Dane Belton
Giants fans can expect the safety position to be improved in 2023. Xavier McKinney enters his fourth professional season, and Jason Pinnock is set to have a breakout year after performing well this summer throughout training camp. However, the Giants' depth at safety raises several questions heading into 2023.
Although Pinnock has been impressive, and his stock has risen this offseason, he recently suffered a leg injury and he has missed time this week. The following strong safety in line is 2022 fourth-round pick Dane Belton.
Last season, Belton suffered a broken collarbone during training camp but quickly recovered and made an immediate impact as a rookie. He made 31 tackles (24 solo) and two interceptions in 15 appearances with the G-Men.
Through two preseason games this year, Belton has two solo tackles, one interception, and one pass defended. He even had his viral moment in joint practices with the Detroit Lions, forcing a fumble by stripping the ball away from running back David Montgomery. Belton is playing confidently, which has led to his continued success and should benefit the Giants this season.
Dane Belton straight up stripped that 😳 pic.twitter.com/c09Lg4MBTY
— New York Giants (@Giants) August 9, 2023
While the second-year DB is a lock for the roster, Belton must still earn his playing time behind the Giants' starting safeties. He will have the chance to show the coaching staff why he will deserve signficant playing time this campaign on Saturday night against the Jets if Pinnock does not play due to his current injury. It will be essential for him to take advantage of this opportunity and exceed expectations.