With the 70th overall pick in the third round of the 2024 NFL draft, the New York Giants have selected Kentucky cornerback Andru Phillips.
After a run on cornerbacks in Round 2, the Giants sat back and patiently waited for the board to come to them. They were rewarded with Phillips, whom the team scouted extensively during the pre-draft process, including a top-30 visit.
Although the 22-year-old Phillips lacks experience and has some flaws in his game, he’s moldable and his natural athletic instincts will benefit him long-term.
Unlike safety Tyler Nubin, who is likely to start on Day 1, Phillips is more of a developmental talent who will need some coaching to reach his ceiling. However, he does provide the added benefit of being a willing tackler and a versatile player, capable of playing outside or in the slot. That will earn him snaps in 2024.
“He’s competitive as heck and very versatile,” Kentucky coach Mark Stoops said after the team’s pro day. “It’s very difficult to play inside, at that slot position, and cover the type of wideouts you’re asked to cover, with a lot of technique and nuance. It takes a bright guy with instinct.
“Dru has that. He can also hold up outside at corner at the next level. That’s why his stock’s up.”
In 29 career games (25 over the past two seasons), the 5-foot-11, 190-pound Phillips has recorded 82 tackles (three for a loss) and 10 passes defensed.
