The New York Giants have encouraged sixth-round pick, Corey Ballentine, to skip rookie minicamp after the tragic shooting incident.
After the New York Giants selected Washburn University cornerback Corey Ballentine in the sixth round of the NFL Draft on Saturday, a tragic incident occurred. Ballentine and college teammate Dwane Simmons were both involved in a shooting that very night while celebrating the momentous occasion.
The shooting killed Simmons and wounded Ballentine, who was released from the hospital Sunday evening.
Giants general manager Dave Gettleman initially noted that Ballentine would be ready for the Giants’ minicamp this Friday – Saturday (May 3-4). Gettleman mentioned on SiriusXM NFL Radio that Ballentine would be ready to go for the team’s camp. However, Simmons’ funeral is occurring the same day.
The Giants put a statement out on Wednesday regarding the situation, encouraging Ballentine to skip Saturday’s minicamp.
“We have encouraged Corey to stay in Kansas this week to be with his family and friends as they mourn the loss and celebrate the life of his good friend and teammate Dwane Simmons,” the Giants organization stated. “Corey will be with us when it’s appropriate.”
Earlier this week, WFAN Sports Radio host Mike Francesa questioned the Giants’ “optics” when it came to Ballentine’s situation. WFAN hosts Boomer Esiason and Greg Giannotti criticized Francesa for his comments, which prompted Francesa to make a fiery call into the show.
It’s the correct move by the Giants here. Ballentine needs time to rest and recover, as well as be with his family during these times. It’s still unclear when Ballentine will make his way back to the organization after minicamp has concluded. Offseason Training Activities for the Giants begin Monday, May 20.
Ballentine had 50 total tackles, three interceptions and four pass-breakups his senior year for Washburn. When he returns to the team, he’ll be competing against the likes of cornerbacks DeAndre Baker, Julian Love and Sam Beal, in what should be a tight race for that opposite side corner.
