Why Declining a Former 2023 Draft Pick's Fifth-Year Option Was the Best Move for Big Blue

The New York Football Giants decided to decline their 2023 first-round cornerback Deonte Banks’ fifth-year option. This does not automatically mean he will not return to the Meadowlands; it means New York is giving him time to prove himself. Banks has not been pulling his weight during the regular season. It hasn’t been an easy go, but many of the mistakes made on the field have been partially because of him. The Giants have spent a lot of time this offseason rebuilding their defensive line. They have basically put down an ultimatum for him to do better for the team. However, here are the top three reasons that it was best for New York to decline his fifth year in the first place.

1. No Early Pay Day 

Banks has not earned a top-tier cornerback's money yet. He has not been playing at a level worthy of a fifth-year option. From the 2023 to the 2025 season, his stats show he played in 45 games, starting only 35. Banks has had 140 tackles and two interceptions, both of which took place in his rookie year. The former 2023 draft pick has also defended 28 passes. His production has not grown in the last two years. They want to pay for proof that he can pull through, not for his potential. 

2. Enforces Banks to Have a Breakout Season 

With the Giants not giving him the fifth-year option, the Giants are now giving him an ultimatum and a prove-it situation. If he can get his numbers to go up from where they were, the Giants can change their minds about what he is worth. If he wants to be the starting cornerback money, he has to play like he wants it. The Giants have basically told him that he needs to show them consistency. The franchise has essentially taken away his safety net and is pushing him to do more than he has been doing. The urgency can push him to deliver more production than the team wants. If Banks can bring more interceptions and more starts, then the Giants may have the chance to rethink their choices. 

3. Allows Big Blue to Be Flexible 

With the Giants declining his fifth-year option for the time being, it’s actually a blessing in disguise for New York. They can take the money and put it elsewhere where they need to. They can sign on other players that they have been looking at. If need be, they also have the option to extend him that money if he does break out. There is no cap strain or forced commitment for the team if things don’t go as planned with Banks, and they need to let him go.