Giants decline Deonte Banks’ fifth-year option as ‘clean slate’ begins
The New York Giants have declined the fifth-year option on cornerback Deonte Banks' contract, making him a free agent after the 2026 season. Banks, who has shown inconsistent performance, will now play for a new contract under a 'clean slate' promised by the coaching staff. He faces increased competition at his position with new additions and a rookie challenging for playing time.
- ▪The Giants declined Deonte Banks’ fifth-year option, worth $12.6 million, making him a free agent after 2026.
- ▪Banks struggled in the team’s zone defense over the past two seasons, allowing 71 catches on 103 targets.
- ▪Head coach John Harbaugh and defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson have promised Banks a 'clean slate' to improve his performance.
- ▪The Giants signed Paulson Adebo and added Greg Newsome II and rookie Colton Hood, increasing competition at cornerback.
- ▪Three of the Giants’ last four first-round picks had their fifth-year options declined, including Kadarius Toney, Evan Neal, and now Deonte Banks.
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NFL New York Giants Giants decline Deonte Banks’ fifth-year option as ‘clean slate’ begins By Ryan Dunleavy Published May 1, 2026, 4:50 p.m. ET Deonte Banks will be playing for his next contract this season. To no surprise and in accordance with Friday’s deadline for a decision, a source told The Post the Giants declined the fifth-year option on Banks’ contract. The club option was worth a guaranteed $12.6 million in 2027 but instead Banks now will become a free agent after earning $2.6 million in 2026. Access the Giants like never before Get texts from Paul Schwartz with all the latest Giants news and insights, exclusive to Sports+ subscribers.
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