The 2024 NFL season is approaching, and Giants fans are building excitement. Training camp will kick off on July 24th for the veteran players. Let’s take a look at the Giants’ safety room as the team heads into training camp.
Jason Pinnock
Jason Pinnock has proven himself a valuable asset in the Giants’ secondary. After being claimed off waivers from the Jets in 2022, Pinnock was determined to break free from his special teams role. Last season, he excelled in training camp and continued to impress throughout the season. He recorded 85 tackles, two sacks, and two interceptions, including a remarkable 102-yard return against the Dolphins. Pinnock also contributed 10 pressures, 19 run stops, and two forced fumbles. His great range, acceleration, physicality, and improved awareness have positioned him for an expanded role in the 2024 season.
Tyler Nubin
The Giants are confident that Tyler Nubin can handle early challenges, thanks to his extensive experience from 48 games over five years at Minnesota. They believe earning a starting role in his rookie year is a realistic goal. What sets Nubin apart from most newcomers is his high character and leadership qualities. After drafting him in the second round, general manager Joe Schoen praised Nubin as a “culture changer” at Minnesota and expects him to bring that same mentality to the Giants.
Dane Belton
Dane Belton is in the mix for the Giants’ starting strong safety position, competing with rookie Tyler Nubin. After limited playing time in his first two seasons, Belton now has a chance to step up with Xavier McKinney gone. According to Ryan Dunleavy of the New York Post, Belton has been impressive in OTAs with his ball-hawking skills while playing with the first-team defense. With Nubin currently sidelined by a hamstring injury, Belton has a strong opportunity to secure the starting role.
Jalen Mills
The New York Giants have added veteran safety Jalen Mills to bolster their defensive depth. With eight years of experience, including stints with the Eagles and Patriots, Mills brings valuable Super Bowl experience and versatility. While primarily a cornerback, he showcased his ability to play across the secondary last season. With the Giants’ youthful depth, Mills’ experience and adaptability will be key assets for the defense.
Gervarrius Owens
New York Giants safety Gervarrius Owens was nearly the last pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, selected 254th overall in the seventh round. Entering his second NFL season, Owens aims to make a more significant impact. Hailing from Moore, Oklahoma, he was drafted to add depth to the Giants’ safety position after losses in free agency. Despite some technical challenges, Owens appeared in just three games as a rookie, mainly contributing on special teams. Now, he’s looking for a chance to contribute more meaningfully to the roster.
Elijah Riley
At 26, Riley has established a solid NFL career since his time at the United States Military Academy at West Point. The Port Jefferson, NY native initially spent two seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles before joining the Jets in 2021. He has spent the last two years with the Pittsburgh Steelers, primarily contributing on special teams. Last season, Riley recorded 12 tackles, including two for a loss and a sack, in 13 games.