The NFL recently released the fifth-year option salaries for its 2023 first-round draft picks, providing clarity for teams like the New York Giants to decide whether to extend their contracts as the May 1 deadline approaches.
For Giants cornerback Deonte Banks, who was selected with the 24th overall pick, his 2027 fifth-year option has a base salary of $12.633 million, which will be fully guaranteed if exercised.
advertise
That number was set at the minimum due to Banks’ failure to meet the performance or playing time thresholds for a higher salary, reinforcing the Giants’ decision to potentially decline.
Banks has struggled as a cornerback, posting poor coverage metrics — including a league-worst PFF grade among eligible corners in three seasons — and allowing a high passer rating when targeted. He lost his starting job and moved primarily to special teams.
While Banks showed promise as a return specialist in 2025 — averaging 32.7 yards per return (second in the NFL), 95 yards for a touchdown, and earning two All-Pro votes, his defensive shortcomings make him nowhere near worth the $12.633 million tag.
Banks has also been listed as a possible trade candidate this offseason, though his limited value as a non-starting corner complicates any potential trade. Rejecting this option seems certain so that the team can move forward without a onerous commitment.
This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: NFL gives Giants another reason to decline Deonte Banks’ fifth-year option
