The New York Giants took a major step forward on defense this offseason, adding both star power and much-needed depth to a unit that struggled with consistency in 2024.
Their investments targeted both the front line and the secondary. Rookie additions Abdul Carter and Darius Alexander came through the draft, while veterans Jevon Holland and Paulson Adebo were signed in free agency to boost the team’s defensive presence.
Yet sometimes, the most exciting developments come from within. Safety Dane Belton is doing his best to ensure he isn’t overlooked — and based on his spring performance, he’s making a serious case for a larger role.
Dane Belton turning heads with offseason growth
Defensive coordinator Shane Bowen recently singled out Belton for praise, calling attention to his progress this spring. On Thursday, he recorded his third interception of OTAs, showing improved anticipation and ball skills. At just 24 years old and entering his third NFL season, Belton looks to be evolving both physically and mentally.
Dane Belton
He’s always brought physicality and toughness, especially near the line of scrimmage, but now his feel for coverage seems to be catching up. That blend of skills could make him a versatile asset in a secondary that’s still taking shape.
Steady development year over year
Belton’s on-field progress has been noticeable. Across three seasons, he’s logged over 1,100 snaps with 81 tackles. His missed tackle rate has dropped from 13% to 9.3% last year, and he added 34 tackles and an interception in coverage. While he did surrender 226 receiving yards and three touchdowns, those stats point more to growing pains than long-term liabilities.
Though he’s still polishing his coverage skills, his instincts against the run and physical presence give him a solid foundation. He’s the type of reliable, adaptable player that coaching staffs depend on — especially when injuries hit midseason.
Trusted depth piece heading into 2025
With Jevon Holland locked in as a starter and second-year safety Tyler Nubin likely handling box duties, Belton enters 2025 as the team’s primary backup. His ability to step in at multiple spots makes him a valuable safety net — a role the Giants haven’t consistently filled with mid-round picks in recent years.
If he continues to develop at this rate, he could quietly become one of the defense’s most important depth pieces — a player who can step in seamlessly and help stabilize the unit when needed.
Belton’s breakout may finally be here
Often, mid-round draft picks fade into the background — not quite ready to start and too replaceable to wait on. Belton seems determined to rewrite that narrative. Coaches are already taking notice, and he’s backing up the praise with his performance on the field.
Every defense needs a dependable, under-the-radar contributor who’s ready when called upon. If Belton carries this momentum into training camp, he could prove to be a hidden gem in the Giants’ revamped defense — and finally deliver on the potential they saw when they drafted him.
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