Giants DC Shane Bowen provides crucial update on key position battle between Cor’Dale Flott and Deonte Banks
New York Giants defensive coordinator Shane Bowen updated fans on the position battle between Cor’Dale Flott and Deonte Banks
The most highly contested position battle on the New York Giants roster this preseason has been the one between Cor’Dale Flott and Deonte Banks. There’s been a back-and-forth swing between Flott and Banks, as they’re duking it out for the second outside cornerback spot.
When speaking to the media today, defensive coordinator Shane Bowen provided an update on how both players are doing with one preseason game remaining.
How do Flott and Banks compare?
From an outsider’s perspective, Flott appears to have the leg up in the competition. Aside from Flott making more impactful plays, it was telling at the start of training camp that a former first-rounder, Banks, is required to compete to start.
Bowen did not directly indicate which player is leading, but the lack of an answer suggests that Flott could be leading. He did point out that the close battle has created a sense of urgency for both players.
“The competition is making them both better … I think there’s been production there that we didn’t necessarily see as much this time last year from both those guys.”
Bowen was very detailed in praising Flott’s performance this past Saturday during the Giants’ win over the New York Jets. He specifically brought up the pass breakup that Flott had against star receiver Garrett Wilson early in the game.
“It was good to see Flott on that third down, break up that pass Saturday night. So, I was encouraged by him being back out there and the reps that he did get.”
Additionally, Bowen brought up the transition Flott is undergoing, having to shift from inside to outside corner.
“I think Flott, just the comfort level of playing out there, he played inside early on in his career. So, the more reps he’s gotten out there, the more comfortable he’s become.”
Banks hasn’t completely relinquished the position, but has lacked consistency. Bowen also added that Banks has made improvements throughout training camp.
“And [Banks has] done some good things. He’s challenged guys, I think he’s showed up at times in the run game for us. Setting edges, being physical, whether it was in practice or the games.”
With one game in the preseason remaining and a finite number of practices, both players must take advantage of the opportunities ahead. Last season, they allowed a similar catch percentage to opposing receivers when targeted. Banks allowed a 68.9% while Flott gave up 65.9%.
If both players are on the field this Thursday against the New England Patriots, it will be intriguing to track which stands out the most with their jobs on the line.
