There haven't been many positive talking points to come from the New York Giants' catastrophic 2025 campaign. However, they've certainly landed upon some things to hang their hat on, including fourth-year cornerback Cor'Dale Flott's continued ascension.
Slowly but surely, Flott has developed into a near-every-down contributor for the Giants since they selected him in the third round of the 2022 draft. He entered the NFL as a raw, developmental prospect but has evidently realized his potential, taking a considerable step forward in 2025.
The emergence of the Giants' promising rookie backfield of quarterback Jaxson Dart and running back Cam Skattebo has understandably dominated headlines. Nevertheless, Flott has quietly written a homegrown success story himself, though his tale in New York may be ending as theirs is ostensibly only beginning.
Flott is slated for unrestricted free agency in the coming months and figures to be a hot commodity. One that a club with minimal cap space and several roster holes, like the Giants, may have no choice but to deem expendable.
Giants breakout CB Cor'Dale Flott may be playing his final snaps in New York
Players of his profile typically do well on the open market; he doesn't turn 25 until August and is trending upward at a premium position. The Giants are presumably well aware of this, considering they were on the other side of this scenario with Paulson Adebo last offseason.
Whether it be buyer's remorse after seeing how poorly their Adebo investment has gone or leaguewide interest, Flott's days with the G-Men feel numbered. Sacrifices must be made, and the latter might be at the top of the list of potential casualties.
Spotrac's calculated market value projects Flott to earn $9.9 million annually in his next deal, which feels like a conservative estimation. Ex-Dallas Cowboys corner Jourdan Lewis secured a three-year, $30 million contract from the Jacksonville Jaguars this past March, and he was 29 at the time.
Age untapped upside should drive up Flott's price tag. He's young and productive, yet has also shown there's more meat on the bone to chew off. So, the three-year, $40 million pact Kyler Gordon signed with the Chicago Bears in April sounds more in line with his forthcoming payday than Lewis'.
Slot corners traditionally earn less money than the ones who line up outside, giving Flott an edge over both the names mentioned. Not to mention, the league's rising salary cap also works in his favor. Add it all up, and he's suddenly over the Giants' budget.
Through Week 16, Flott's 69.2 overall Pro Football Focus grade ranks 25th out of 108 qualified corners this season. Despite only having one interception to show for it, he's fared particularly well in coverage. His 11 pass deflections are among the best in football.