5. Darnay Holmes
Many Giants fans were excited when the team selected cornerback Darnay Holmes out of UCLA in the fourth round of the 2020 NFL Draft. Holmes was regarded as a potential value pick who would be able to man the slot corner position for the G-Men for years to come. Unfortunately, he’s failed to live up to expectations in his first four seasons and now finds himself in the last year of his rookie contract.
Holmes took a pay cut to remain with Big Blue this offseason, suggesting the front office may have been prepared to move on from him at his original price tag. Holmes’ usage throughout the season also supports this notion – he’s played 18 percent of the team’s defensive snaps or less in all but two games this season (excluding the game he missed).
Despite the limited playing time, Holmes has recorded two interceptions, three pass deflections, one tackle for loss, and 16 combined tackles. It is important to note that the current Giants regime did not draft Holmes. He is a product of the infamous Dave Gettleman era. Can Holmes finish the season strong with a solid December performance to convince the front office he should be a part of their long-term plans?