The New York Giants secondary is one of the many position groups that has many questions. The G Men moved on from their top cornerback, James Bradberry, in a salary cutting move. In addition, Logan Ryan has moved on to play with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Unfortunately, that leaves a lot of inexperience in the secondary. However, one play that is looking to make an impact is Xavier McKinney.
Entering Year Three
McKinney played a significant role for the Giants in his first two seasons. In his rookie year he played in just six games after a foot injury forced him to miss the first ten weeks. He recorded 24 tackles (14 solo), while adding an interception. However, in his second season, he played in every game and tallied 88 tackles (54 solo) and had five interceptions. McKinney will be looked at as a leader on the field as the defense goes into a new system under Don Martindale.
Impact Of Logan Ryan
Ryan was a Giant for two seasons before signing with the Buccaneers on a one year contract after being released. He is an nine-year veteran that played four years in New England and three years in Tennessee before joining the Giants in 2020. He has never missed more than two games in a season and has been a leader at every stop of his career. McKinney and Ryan had a bond during their time at the Giants and have continued that relationship this off-season. If McKinney can learn from his mentor and become a leader on and off the field, the Giants will lean on him heavily.
McKinney Expectations
In his second year in the league for a defense that underachieved, McKinney had impressive numbers. He finished tied for fourth in interceptions and recorded PFF defensive grades of 75.4 and coverage grade of 78.4. If he can build on his interceptions its not crazy to think he can finish in the top-3. When the season starts, McKinney will only be 23 and just 23 games under his belt, he has a lot of potential to be a top safety in the NFC and in the NFL.
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