Janoris Jenkins, Cornerback, New York Giants
While most fans around the league focused on the Giants’ pick of quarterback Daniel Jones, New York’s selection of cornerback Deandre Baker is much more telling for the Oakland Raiders.
Not only did the Giants just select Baker, but they also took cornerbacks Julian Love in the fourth round and Corey Ballentine in the sixth. With last year’s supplemental draft pick Sam Beal already in tow, the Giants’ cornerback depth has only gotten deeper.
With so many holes on the defensive side, it’s interesting to see the Giants take this approach. There’s a chance that one of their corners ends up moving to safety, but it’s also possible that one is moved.
Janoris Jenkins isn’t just the oldest of the Giants’ corners, but he is also owed around $10 million through 2020. New York likely isn’t winning anything with Eli Manning as their quarterback, meaning they may likely be willing to cut Jenkins. If so, the Raiders should be all over him.
Conley is locked into one cornerback spot. But opposite of him, players such as Nick Nelson, Daryl Worley and rookies Trayvon Mullen and Isiah Johnson should battle among others. All have hypothetical potential – especially the rookies – but none are proven talents. Adding a veteran with a track record of success next to a growing CB in Conley would only improve the team and the young defensive back.
Last season, Jenkins started 15 of 16 games, making 70 tackles with two interceptions and 15 passes defended.Jenkins’ 15 PDs ranked tied for fifth in the NFL. He has given an above average grade of 68 from Pro Football Focus and was highlighted for his coverage skills.
Jenkins is just two seasons away from being named to the Pro Bowl. Leaving the Giants, who seem to be heading in the wrong direction, to a Raiders team with upside could rejuvenate Jenkins.
The former second round pick would function as a great leader for the team’s secondary. He would force teams to throw towards Conley, improving his skill while showing players like Mullen and Johnson the ropes.
Little is known about the Giants’ plans these days. However, if they do cut Jenkins he fits the mold as a solid veteran the Raiders could bring in, supplementing the team’s youth.
