Giants’ controversial cornerback signing faces early criticism

During this transition period, the team from New York decided to strengthen its defense by signing a contract with cornerback Paulson Adebo for three years, with a total value of 54 million dollars. The goal was to improve the situation in the secondary line, but this move was not well received, especially by some experts.

One of them is ESPN sports analyst Seth Walder, who released his grades for every NFL team after the trade deadline on Thursday. Although he praised the signing of safety Jevon Holland and quarterback Jameis Winston, he had serious reservations about the new cornerback.

"I wasn't a fan of the move," Walder said plainly. "Adebo, who suffered a broken femur in Week 7 of last season, had solid numbers in coverage over the previous two seasons combined, with a minus-49 EPA allowed as the closest defender, according to NFL Next Gen Stats. However, production on the field has not been consistent from year to year, and the metrics I consider more important — such as target percentage and yards allowed per coverage per action — are concerning. In his limited sample last season, Adebo was targeted 21% of the time (the most of any outside cornerback with at least 250 coverages), and allowed a career-high 1.6 yards per coverage per action."

A key role in the defense and high expectations

The 27-year-old won't just be important to the secondary, but to the entire Giants defense. Their defensive line is among the best in the league, with Pro Bowl defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence and youngster Darius Alexander providing pressure up the middle. Along with them, in the rotation at the edge position will be the third pick from the draft in 2025, Abdul Carter, while linebackers Brian Burns and Kayvon Thibodeaux are already considered an important part of the team.

If the defense manages to reach its full potential in the pass rush, the experienced cornerback will have to show in coverage. 

He already has one-on-one experience, as former Saints coach Dennis Allen often put him in those situations on the outside.