The Giants on Sunday against the Panthers will be without one of their starters on defense at a position without much proven depth, as cornerback Aaron Robinson had his appendix removed on Wednesday and has already been ruled out for the game.
Robinson started in the 21-20 season-opening victory over the Titans in Nashville and was on the field for 62 of the 65 snaps on defense. After struggling in the preseason games, Robinson played well against the Titans.
Adoree’ Jackson played all 65 snaps opposite Robinson at cornerback. Robinson figures to be out several weeks as he recovers.
In reserve, there is not much behind Robinson on the current roster, as far as a player who has shown he can handle the responsibilities of a perimeter cornerback. Darnay Holmes is a starter as a slot corner.
“It’ll be just like all the other positions that we’ve done,’’ coach Brian Daboll said. “We have guys on the roster, whether they’re on the practice squad, that are going to compete … and we’ll end up picking like we usually do on Friday evening usually.’’
Rookie Cor’Dale Flott, a third-round draft pick from LSU, could be next in line. Justin Layne was a 2019 third-round pick of the Steelers and played in 43 games the past three years, with no starts. The Giants have two cornerbacks on their practice squad, Fabian Moreau and Zyon Gilbert, and one or both could be elevated for this game.
“I’ve been preparing, I’ve been learning from the older guys,’’ Flott said. “I feel like I’m ready to step up. My preparation here, having that mindset to try to be ready whenever my time is called and that’s now.’’
Moreau, 28, has plenty of experience. He started 16 games for the Falcons last season after spending the first four years of his NFL career with Washington.
Giants cornerback Aaron Robinson celebrates after a win over the Titans on Sept. 11, 2022. AP“It’s a new scheme, just got to get it down but I’ve played a lot in this league and I still feel I can play good ball,’’ Moreau said. “I’m just working hard and trying to fill in where I’m needed. I’m ready for this opportunity, I’m ready to go when my name’s called. I bring experience and help when needed and advice and knowledge to this defense.’’
