Giants’ Xavier McKinney named a second-year breakout candidate
The New York Giants could use some luck. In the past few years, their draft picks have failed to take off in their second seasons. Running back Saquon Barkley got hurt, and quarterback Daniel Jones and wide receiver Darius Slayton leveled off as sophomores, as did left guard Will Hernandez.
Interior defensive lineman Dexter Lawrence remained steady and Julian Love began to show flashes. This coming season, the Giants are hopeful that the light goes on for offensive linemen Andrew Thomas, Matt Peart and Shane Lemieux, and that defensive back Darnay Holmes can build on a strong rookie campaign.
One player that intrigues critics is last year’s second-round pick, safety Xavier McKinney, who missed the first 10 games of the season due to a foot fracture. McKinney started slow upon his return but then played quite a bit in the Giants’ final four games. He finished the season with 25 total tackles, one pass defensed, one tackle for a loss and an interception.
In a list of possible second-year breakout players, CBS Sports’ Josh Edwards believes McKinney could take off in 2021.
McKinney was my top-rated safety in last year’s draft so I am bullish, perhaps stubborn, in regards to his potential. The former Alabama defensive back missed 11 games, but ended the season on a high note with an interception against Dallas. One would think upgrading the pass rush is a priority for the Giants this offseason, and that only means more turnover opportunities for McKinney.
Come training camp, McKinney will find himself in a battle for playing time with veterans Jabrill Peppers and Logan Ryan entrenched as the starters at safety, and Holmes and Love becoming too valuable to keep on the bench.
