New York Giants cornerback Adoree’ Jackson has gained much from mentors over the course of his career and now finds himself in that same role. The 27-year-old is the veteran of the room and will oversee a group of young bucks this coming season.
One of those is rookie first-round pick Deonte Banks, who has already made quite the impression on Jackson.
“I’m excited,” Jackson said of playing alongside Banks. “I think about when I was in Tennessee, and I had Logan Ryan being able to help me and mentor me. And the following year, I had Malcolm Butler. I always think of it as an added benefit to us as a whole, not just the defense but the team as a whole. So, I’m excited, watched his tape. Like him. Watched him go through the walk-throughs, different things. Talked to him. He’s got a good head on his shoulder. Seems like a great guy. I was excited to get Banks.”
Jackson says Banks has fit right in with the Giants, embracing the culture and the experiences of being a rookie.
“It hasn’t been a challenge (for him). He’s a great guy. He’s been acceptable to the culture, what we’re trying to build here. And I can’t do anything but really appreciate him and welcome him in the same as us,” Jackson said. “It takes a lot to gain so much trust and vice versa. He came up with open arms as we did. He’s been a good guy, giving us laughs, singing and stuff, which is pretty cool to see him not shy away or be shy at all and trying to be one of us, it’s dope to see.”
Banks will undoubtedly make some mistakes — all rookies do — but Jackson just wants to make sure he learns from them and doesn’t repeat them.
“What Dick LeBeau taught me when I was in Tennessee, if something doesn’t go my way or if a play doesn’t go this, that or a third, he always told me his experiences and what goes on, just give him tools to make him better. I think that’s the best thing a veteran cornerback can do, just let somebody learn from their mistakes and try to help them and be that voice of reason in their ear, how I would have wanted it vice versa. Just trying to be there as much as possible for him,” he said.