Pittsburgh Steelers vs. New York Giants: 5 things fans should know in Week 1

The Giants secondary will look different in 2020

The Pittsburgh Steelers are going up against a very young and very different secondary that the Giants are fielding this year. The only position not having a new starter in 2020 is the strong safety spot, as Jabrill Peppers will continue to start. James Bradberry and Corey Ballentine are expected to start on the out side thanks to the charges brought against Deandre Baker and Sam Beal opting out of the 2020 season.

The two positions in question are Free Safety and Slot Cornerback. The Giants selected Xaviar McKinney with the 36th pick of the second round and he had been expected to start or at least compete with Julian Love at Free Safety. Even though, Julian Love had impressed many while filling in for Jabrill Peppers in the final 5 games of the 2019 season. However, McKinney suffered a broken bone in his foot and has been placed on IR.

The Giants made another big signing by snatching up Logan Ryan right before roster cuts. He could come in and immediately compete for FS or the slot. For at least the start of the year, he will probably be spending his time in the slot as he gets familiarized with his new defense. 4th rd pick Darnay Holmes was in position to take the slot corner role before the signing but it appears as though the Giants would prefer someone with more experience in such a young secondary.