Jeromy

Miles

The 2010 second-rounder played just 57 of a possible 648 defensive snaps last season while missing seven games due to injuries. He’s strictly an in-the-box safety with poor coverage instincts. Jeromy Miles could also be in the mix, though the Bengals figured to strongly consider Alabama’s Mark Barron at No. 17 regardless of Crocker’s status.

The Bengals also tendered a contract to restricted free agent LS Clark Harris. Miles appeared in all 16 games last season, making 16 tackles, 14 of which came on special teams.

Bengals DC Mike Zimmer indicated he’s nowhere near naming a starter, but the organization has been high on Mays since he came out of USC in 2010. Mays is trying to hold off Jeromy Miles, Robert Sands, and rookie George Iloka. For now, the Bengals aren’t considering moving CBs Nate Clements or Jason Allen.

Miles appeared in all 16 games for the second straight season in 2012, registering 28 tackles mainly as a special teams player. Starting strong safety Chris Crocker is a free agent, but Miles is a long shot to be his replacement.

26-year-old Miles is a smart kid from UMass, and the Ravens may use him to gather intel on the division-rival Bengals. He can also play special teams.

Per Jamison Hensley, it’s “apparent” that Williams has “more of a feel for that position” than Taylor Mays. Williams’ is really competing against George Iloka and Jeromy Miles, but his in-the-box prowess should allow him to win out. He’s a nice complement to coverage specialist Reggie Nelson.

Miles didn’t generate much interest during the free agency period despite putting together a solid season in 2014. He was particularly strong in coverage, receiving PFF’s 14th-highest grade among 87 qualifiers at safety. The 27-year-old also contributes on special teams. Nat Berhe and rookie Landon Collins are expected to open the season as the Giants’ starting safeties.

A former special teams ace, Miles played a career-high 335 snaps on defense for the Ravens last year, logging 23 tackles and one interception. Miles has started three games in five NFL seasons, making him by default the Giants’ most experienced safety. He’ll back up starters Landon Collins and Nat Berhe.

Miles is perhaps the Ravens most valuable special teams player. He barely played on the defensive side of the ball last season.

Miles was briefly in the starting mix in New York’s undermanned safety corps, but faded quickly. He could be brought back if/when depth arises arise again.