DP #22

Dru Phillips

Cornerback · Kentucky

A third-round pick out of Kentucky known for elite athleticism, Phillips has become a regular playmaker in the Giants' secondary.

Dru Phillips is a cornerback for the New York Giants who moved into the nickel role as a rookie and has since developed into one of the team's more productive turnover generators. He comes from a football family, with his father having played linebacker at Kentucky.

★ Third-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft

★ 4.48-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine

★ Led Giants in passes defensed in 2025

★ Two interceptions and a fumble recovery in 2025

Path to the league

Phillips played in 38 games with 16 starts across three seasons at Kentucky, finishing with 82 tackles, 10 pass breakups and three tackles for loss. He tested as one of the draft's most explosive defensive backs, running a 4.48-second 40-yard dash and posting a 42-inch vertical jump at the NFL Combine. The Giants selected him in the third round, 70th overall, of the 2024 NFL Draft.

Career highlights

Phillips was praised as one of the best value picks of the 2024 draft class and was moved into New York's slot cornerback role after playing primarily outside corner in college. He has drawn Pro Bowl buzz entering his second full NFL season for his ball skills and tackling.

2025 season recap

Phillips played all 17 games for the Giants in 2025, recording 66 tackles, a career-high 12 passes defensed and two interceptions to go with a fumble recovery. He earned a 63.0 overall PFF defensive grade and led New York in passes defensed, though his role fluctuated between full-time starter and rotational player over the course of the season.