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Giants' Dru Phillips Primed for Breakout Season After LASIK Surgery
15 Aug
Summary
- Dru Phillips, Giants' 2024 third-round pick, emerged as a top defensive player as a rookie
- Phillips underwent LASIK eye surgery to improve his ball-tracking abilities
- Teammates and coaches expect a "big jump" from Phillips in his second season

The New York Giants have high hopes for their 2024 third-round draft pick, cornerback Dru Phillips. As a rookie last season, Phillips immediately became one of the team's most important defensive players, showcasing his abilities as a stout run defender and coverage specialist.
Now, entering his second NFL campaign, Phillips is poised for a breakout year. The 23-year-old has made a significant improvement to his game, undergoing LASIK eye surgery in the offseason to address his struggles with tracking the ball in the air. "I was kind of blind before," Phillips admitted, explaining that the procedure has made it much easier for him to see the ball and make plays.
With his vision issues resolved, Phillips is expected to take a "big jump" in 2025, according to head coach Brian Daboll. Teammates have also praised the young cornerback's upside, and NFL.com's Kevin Patra recently predicted that Phillips could earn his first Pro Bowl selection this season.
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In 2024, Phillips was already one of the league's top-performing cornerbacks, ranking in the top 10 in both coverage grade and run-defense grade. His ability to make an impact against the pass and the run makes him a valuable asset in the Giants' defense, which is poised to be elite this season thanks to their talented defensive line.
If Phillips can build on his impressive rookie campaign and capitalize on his improved ball skills, he could emerge as a rising superstar in the NFL. The Giants' defense has the potential to be dominant, and Phillips will be a key piece in their success.