The New York Giants might've gotten a huge gift in the 2023 NFL Draft. In the sixth round, cornerback Tre Hawkins III fell right into Joe Schoen's lap. The Giants now have two rookie studs lined up to start at cornerback, which is something fans haven't seen in a very long time.
Fellow rookie CB Deonte Banks was expected to emerge as the CB1, but Hawkins is showing the coaching staff he has potential to be showstopper as well. The Old Dominion product has all the physical tools to be a great corner, as he possesses major strength and speed.
At just 23 years old, he will certainly experience some growing pains. At the same time, though, we are seeing cornerbacks make an impact at very early points in their career these days. The athleticism he attains is certainly undeniable, and it showed in training camp and during the preseason.
Tre Hawkins picking up Adam Thielen on the scramble drill -- excellent coverage #NYG pic.twitter.com/vJW1PduOgw
— Alex Wilson (@AlexWilsonESM) August 18, 2023
Tre Hawkins has been one of the best surprises of camp for the NY Giants
If Hawkins can become a reliable cornerback for the Giants this season, that would make their defense one of the best in the NFC. The defensive front is already loaded with guys like Dexter Lawrence and Kayvon Thibodeaux.
If the secondary that already features Xavier McKinney and Adoree' Jackson gets two rookies to add to the fire, then the defense becomes much more dangerous. Building up a strong secondary in the NFC East is a must.
With the high-octane offenses the Philadelphia Eagles and Dallas Cowboys feature, it only makes sense for Joe Schoen to provide Wink Martindale with serious talent. Having three legitimate cornerbacks to go up against guys like AJ Brown, Devonta Smith, CeeDee Lamb and more star receivers will be a huge plus.
Now by no means do we think Hawkins will become a Top 5 corner in the NFL this season, but don't rule out the youngster making a head-turning impact for the Giants. This team has playoff aspirations, and they want to go even further this time around than in '22.
Just because Hawkins is a sixth-round pick, it doesn't mean he's going to get bullied around. He's all set to start on the outside with Banks, while Jackson will make his way to the slot. This is not what anyone was expecting for Week 1 vs. Dallas, but it speaks volumes to how fantastic Hawkins has been.
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