The Giants, who ranked 24th in net yards per pass attempt last season, still need help at the cornerback position. Rookie third-round pick Andru Phillips has some upside but isn’t likely to be a reliable starter right away. 2023 first-round pick Deonte Banks was solid as a rookie, but New York still lacks depth.

Eli Apple didn’t quite live up to expectations as the Giants’ 2016 first-round pick. However, he became a dependable starter during stints with the New Orleans Saints and Cincinnati Bengals after departing New York.

A return to the Giants could make sense for both Apple and the team. Though still only 28 years old, Apple has grown substantially since he was traded in 2018—he’s allowed an opposing passer rating below 100.0 in four of the past six seasons—and New York could give him a chance to revitalize his career.

After starting 60 games between 2018 and 2022, Apple was more of a role player with the Miami Dolphins in 2023. After playing on a one-year, $1.6 million deal in Miami, Apple should not be out of the Giant’s price range.