Rasul Douglas Could Be the Cornerback the New York Giants Need
The New York Giants are facing a significant challenge in their secondary after struggling with young cornerbacks in 2024.
Their defensive backfield became vulnerable due to inconsistency and inexperience, highlighting the need for a veteran presence.
As they head into the offseason, the Giants are expected to seek out a cornerback with proven experience to solidify their defense, and one underrated option could be free agent Rasul Douglas.
Rasul Douglas, a seasoned 30-year-old cornerback, is set to hit the free-agent market after spending the past three seasons with the Buffalo Bills, following a trade from the Green Bay Packers.
Over his career, Douglas has proven himself to be a reliable starter. In 2024, he posted 58 combined tackles, five tackles for loss, and five passes defended, showcasing his all-around ability.
He has also consistently been a disruptor in the passing game, recording at least seven pass breakups in six of his seven NFL seasons, and accumulating four or more interceptions in each of the past three years.
Looking ahead to 2025, the Giants are expected to start Deonte Banks and Cor’Dale Flott at cornerback, but this situation is likely to evolve.
Banks has a solid two seasons as a starter, while Flott has seen limited starting opportunities over the past three years.
The addition of Douglas could bring much-needed stability and experience to the position, strengthening a secondary that has room for improvement.
Douglas’ connection to the Giants’ front office could be a key factor in facilitating a potential signing.
Both general manager Joe Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll were previously part of the Buffalo Bills organization, where they worked with Douglas.
This existing relationship could make Douglas a more attractive target for the Giants, who may be able to sign him at a relatively affordable price.
With some salary cap flexibility, the Giants could potentially add another cornerback or bolster other areas of the team as well.
In recent years, the Giants have found success with free-agent acquisitions, and signing a player like Douglas could be another step toward solidifying their defense for the long term.
His experience and proven track record would offer the Giants the stability they need in their secondary as they continue to build a competitive team.