NFL hands Giants another reason to decline Deonte Banks' fifth-year option

The NFL recently announced the fifth-year option salaries for the 2023 first-round draft class, providing clarity for teams like the New York Giants as they approach the May 1 deadline to decide on extensions.

For Giants cornerback Deonte Banks, selected 24th overall, the base salary for his 2027 fifth-year option stands at $12.633 million, fully guaranteed if exercised.

This figure, set at the lowest tier due to Banks' failure to meet performance or playing-time thresholds for higher compensation, reinforces the Giants' likely decision to decline.

Banks has struggled significantly as a cornerback, posting poor coverage metrics—including the league's worst PFF grade among qualifying corners over three seasons and allowing a high passer rating when targeted. He lost his starting role and shifted primarily to special teams.

While Banks showed promise as a return specialist in 2025—averaging 32.7 yards per kick return (second in the NFL), scoring a 95-yard touchdown, and earning two All-Pro votes—his defensive shortcomings make him far from 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 deal. Declining the option appears all but certain, allowing the team to move on without the burdensome commitment.

This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: NFL hands Giants another reason to decline Deonte Banks' fifth-year option