The New York Giants made significant strides to upgrade their secondary this offseason, highlighted by the signing of standout safety Jevon Holland. He’s set to pair with second-year safety Tyler Nubin, forming a promising new duo on the back end of the defense.
But amid the excitement, Dane Belton, now entering his fourth season, risks being overlooked as he fights for a spot in the defensive rotation.
Belton Took a Step Forward in 2024
Last season, Belton quietly made progress, logging a career-high 42% of defensive snaps. That increased playing time led to personal bests in total tackles (56) and passes defended (6). Since being selected in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL Draft, the 24-year-old has steadily improved each year—but remains buried on the depth chart behind the Giants’ new safety tandem.
Is There Room for Belton?
While it won’t be easy for Belton to cut into the snap counts of Holland or Nubin, his knack for creating turnovers could earn him a spot in the rotation. According to Matt Citak of Giants.com, Belton is a name to watch as OTAs begin.
“Despite limited snaps in his first three years, Belton has been a bit of a turnover machine, forcing at least two turnovers in each season—nine total in his career,” Citak wrote.
With five interceptions and four fumble recoveries to his name, Belton has made the most of his limited opportunities. If he can continue showing his playmaking instincts during the offseason and into training camp, he could force the coaching staff to expand his role heading into Year 4.
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