The New York Giants released Darnay Holmes ahead of the NFL roster final cuts deadline. The Las Vegas Raiders were in immediate need of another starting-caliber cornerback with a lack of depth at the position. The assumed starters currently look to be Jack Jones, Jakorian Bennett, and Nate Hobbs. That being said, how often should fans expect to see Holmes competing on the field for the Raiders?
It’s worth noting that Holmes is not unfamiliar with the defense being built in Las Vegas, having first participated in Patrick Graham’s system in New York. Hailing from Pasadena, California, Holmes was drafted in 2020 after graduating from UCLA. This is an hour’s drive away from Jack Jones’ hometown, Long Beach, which could be ideal for chemistry between the two.
Darnay Holmes’ Collegiate Career
Holmes was a five-star recruit coming out of Calabasas High School and instantly starred as a true freshman at UCLA. His ball-hawking skills led the club in interceptions with three, demonstrating his defensive prowess. In addition, he returned kickoffs with a modicum of success by using his skills and athleticism.
Eventually Holmes was able to bolster his return skills and score a touchdown in his second season. This does not negate the fact that he also led the team in forced fumbles in his second season. In the end, he earned multiple honorable mention awards in college.
Humble Beginnings With The Giants
The Giants selected Holmes in the fourth round of the 2020 NFL Draft, launching his career. Generally, no one expected Holmes to be a permanent starter, given that he only started five games in Year 1. Comparatively, this was his most impactful season, as he never started more than four games again.
Despite only starting two games, 2022 was probably statistically the best season for him. In his career, Holmes has totaled 18 pass deflections, 115 tackles, and four interceptions in four years. Though he was definitely talented enough to start, there is certainly a reason for his release. He received a 63.9 Pro Football Focus grade in 2023.
If this was a depth move by the Raiders, it was a great move for the cornerback room. He spent the majority of his time in the slot for the Giants and will likely serve as a backup. He has great lateral quickness, which makes him an excellent defensive mechanism for quick receivers. Another strength of his is his ability to fit in the run game and not avoid contact with larger runners.
For Holmes and the Raiders, the best-case scenario is that we see some big plays throughout the season. Worst case, the Raiders added a depth piece with ties to Graham and one that is highly familiar with his system.
*Top Photo: Getty Images
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