Giants' roster shift might be pushing first-round pick to the trade block

It feels like just yesterday the New York Giants traded up one whole spot with the Jacksonville Jaguars in the 2023 Draft to select Maryland cornerback Deonte Banks. General manager Joe Schoen moved the 25th pick, 160th pick, and 240th pick to northern Florida for the 24th-overall selection, all in an effort to shore up a secondary that needed all the help it could get.

Well, you know what they say about drafting for need over best available player: don’t do it. So, yeah — two-plus seasons later, and things haven’t worked out the way either party would’ve liked. After a promising rookie season, Banks fell flat in Year 2. Coverage struggles became routine, as did questions about his effort, which led to an offseason position battle with Cor’Dale Flott heading into 2025.

Defensive coordinator Shane Bowen was cycling between the two consistently through the first four weeks of the season. But after seeing just nine corner snaps from Banks over the last two games, it’s safe to say Flott has officially won that battle. And with Big Blue finally showing signs of moving on from their failed first-round pick, it’s officially 

Cor’Dale Flott might’ve formally pushed Deonte Banks to the trade block

The G-Men clearly liked Banks enough to trade up for him, but he just hasn’t put it together in New York. Pro Football Focus paints the 24-year-old in a real bad light — a 45.2 overall grade (ranking 151st out of 171 eligible corners) and a brutal 43.8 coverage grade, ranking 146th.

The eye test clearly shows a player who could use a new start elsewhere.

Banks was burned on a double-move touchdown by Chargers wideout Quentin Johnston in Week 4. And the following week, he was flagged for a 25-yard defensive pass interference while trying to cover Saints receiver Chris Olave. It hasn’t been pretty.

Schoen just restructured Paulson Adebo and Jevón Holland’s contracts to free up around $4.8 million in cap space ahead of the November 4 trade deadline. That’s not accidental — especially with reports that New York is sniffing around the receiver market to bolster the playmaking group for rookie QB sensation Jaxson Dart.

Banks is still young and talented enough to interest other teams. Don't be surprised if another front office convinces itself it can unlock his potential. With his first-round pedigree, he could be viewed as a valuable piece in a trade package — particularly if Schoen is eyeing a big-name receiver. Names like Olave, Jakobi Meyers, and Jaylen Waddle have floated around.

One thing’s for sure: Cor’Dale Flott has all but erased Banks’ job security in East Rutherford. If the Giants want upgrades elsewhere, don’t be surprised if No. 2 is packing his bags before Halloween.

Jarren Duran Praises 9-Year-Old Zayin Berry for Heroic Act of Saving Abused Cat: 'True Example of Courage and Compassion'

Yuma, AZ - October 15, 2025 - Boston Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran has publicly praised 9-year-old Zayin Berry of Yuma, Arizona, for his courageous act of saving a cat from abuse at a local skatepark. Berry, who recently earned the title of "ASPCA Kid of the Year," traded his own skateboard to ensure the safety of a helpless animal, a gesture that has earned him widespread admiration.

"I've heard a lot about Zayin's incredible act, and I think it's just amazing," Duran said in an emotional statement. "For a young kid to step up like that, to make such a selfless decision to help an animal in need, it really shows the kind of courage and heart he has. Zayin is a true example of kindness in action."

The incident occurred when Zayin spotted a cat being abused at the skatepark. Without hesitation, Zayin traded his beloved skateboard to the abuser in exchange for the cat's freedom, later naming the cat "Peaches" after ensuring its safety. The young boy's selfless actions not only saved the cat's life but also brought attention to the importance of compassion and standing up for those who cannot protect themselves.

"I just wanted to make sure Peaches was okay," Zayin said in a statement. "I knew I had to help her, so I gave up my skateboard. It felt like the right thing to do."

Duran, who has been an advocate for community service and positive role models, shared his admiration for Zayin's bravery. "It's people like Zayin who make the world better," Duran added. "He didn't think twice about doing what was right, even if it meant giving something important to him. That's the kind of character we need more of."

Zayin's actions have inspired not only the local community in Yuma but also countless others who have learned about his heroic gesture. His willingness to sacrifice something he valued to help an innocent animal serves as a reminder of the power of compassion and standing up for what is right.

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