He started shaky, a frequent target of opposing quarterbacks. But when taking into account Giants cornerback Deandre Baker’s summer, it probably shouldn’t be a surprise. The first-round pick out of Georgia missed key reps because of a knee injury and only played in the preseason opener.
“That’s valuable time, especially for a rookie corner,” safety Jabrill Peppers said. “Those reps that he needed that he’s getting now, some things in the game you have to physically see.”
Now that Baker has seen NFL game speed and route running up close, he has made adjustments. After allowing a perfect quarterback rating of 158.3 when the ball came his way in his first two games, according to Pro Football Focus, Baker has taken strides forward. He has allowed just 35 yards on five targets the past two weeks, helping the Giants win two straight games to get back to .500. The ball came his way just once in Sunday’s victory over the Redskins, an indication of tight coverage.
“When he played against the Cowboys, that was the first time he had done it on the NFL level,” coach Pat Shurmur said. “The next week against Buffalo was the second time, and now he did it [Sunday] for the fourth time. I think he’s getting to be more and more comfortable.”
Perhaps most importantly, he didn’t lose belief in himself. Baker didn’t doubt himself. He just kept working, admittedly a little harder.
“I never lack confidence. I still feel like I’m one of the best to do it. I just got to prove it,” said Baker, who didn’t allow a touchdown last year for Georgia and won the Jim Thorpe Award, given to the top defensive back in college football.
“I know what I’m capable of,” he said. “I just have to put in the work and show it on Sundays.”
Not to be forgotten is the input Baker has received from the veteran Giants defensive backs. Janoris Jenkins, Michael Thomas and Peppers were all in his ear about what he needed to do after the rough start. Their advice: Watch as much film as possible and incorporate the defense’s game plan into his own skill set.
“Understanding what to look for,” Thomas said. “He’s anticipating what’s coming and expecting it, so he’s able to jump certain routes. That’s a little difference from probably the first couple of weeks. It just takes time.”
A big challenge awaits Baker on Sunday, when the Vikings come to town. He’ll spend time guarding dynamic receivers Adam Thielen and Stefon Diggs as the Giants go for their third straight victory. But Baker isn’t treating that as more difficult than any other game. He’s more focused on replicating his past two performances.
“It’s all about consistency,” he said.
