New York Giants mock draft: Passing on WR in round one

Deonte Banks, CB, Maryland

With the No. 25 pick, many fans may be clamoring for a wide receiver. The reality is that there isn’t a prototypical wide-out available for the Giants to draft. Instead, the team should focus on their defensive needs, and there is no better prospect for them than Deonte Banks.

Banks has all the qualities of a legitimate CB1 for any team in the NFL. He is a long and physical corner who excels in press coverage in man-to-man situations. Banks is a line-of-scrimmage re-setter who can play in zone coverage as well, but he truly shines in transitions and can easily handle being left on an island.

Banks has the ability to fit in with their defensive scheme. Defensive coordinator Wink Martindale has been known to play with more defensive backs on the field than any other team in the NFL, and Banks would fit right in. Given how much the Giants love to blitz, Banks would be an ideal man for the job.

While it’s true that many may argue that the Giants need to draft a wide receiver, it’s important to remember that a solid defense is often key to a team’s success. With Banks as their No. 25 pick, the Giants can feel confident that they are getting a top-tier cornerback who can hold his own against the league’s best receivers. Additionally, Banks’ ability to adapt to the Giants’ defensive scheme would make him a valuable asset to the team from day one.

If Banks isn’t there, maybe they surprise everyone and take Darnnell Washington who can help as a blocker, and give Daniel Jones another weapon. Putting him with Darren Waller would give the G-Men a dynamic pairing at tight end with different skill sets. Interior OL help is a possibility as well.