The New York Giants have declined the fifth-year option on cornerback Deonte Banks, their 2023 first-round draft pick.
The decision, which was due by Friday’s deadline, follows an evaluation of Banks’ performance against the projected $12.633 million fully guaranteed salary for the 2027 season.
Selected 24th overall out of Maryland, Banks has yet to develop into a consistent NFL starter. Advanced metrics from 2025 revealed the Giants’ defense performed dramatically worse with him on the field, ranking last in the league in EPA per play during his snaps.
Banks also received the lowest Pro Football Focus grade among qualifying cornerbacks over his first three seasons.
While Banks showed promise as a kick returner, averaging 32.7 yards per return and scoring a 95-yard touchdown, his defensive shortcomings led to reduced playing time.
Incoming head coach John Harbaugh and defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson had extended a “clean slate” this offseason, aiming to simplify schemes and maximize his physical abilities.
“I know Banks. I remember evaluating him coming out. He’s a Maryland Terp and I’m a Maryland Terp. I had just a little bit of background with him. He’s a talented player. He’s big. He can run. He brings an element of physicality, but he’s had an up-and-down career thus far,” Wilson said in April.
“For us, it’s coming in with a clean slate. That’s everybody on this defense. No matter what has been done in the past, where they were drafted, how they were acquired, we’re coming in here as a clean slate, we’re trying to evaluate the players, see what they do well, and we’re trying to teach them our way of football.”
By declining the option, the Giants gain roster flexibility as they continue reshaping their secondary. Banks will now compete for a spot in 2026 on a prove-it basis.
This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: New York Giants decline fifth-year option on Deonte Banks
Reporting by Dan Benton, Giants Wire / Giants Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
