Greg Newsome II stands at six feet tall, weighs 192 pounds, and plays cornerback for the New York Giants. Selected in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft out of Northwestern, Newsome established himself as a versatile defensive back capable of locking down perimeter receivers and covering the slot.
Understanding his trajectory requires looking beyond basic measurements. His path spans elite high school programs, a standout college stint in the Big Ten, and an evolving professional journey across multiple franchises.
Physical Profile and Measurables
Athletic traits dictate success for modern NFL cornerbacks, and Newsome possesses the prototypical build for the position.
- Height: 6 feet 0 inches (1.83 m)
- Weight: 192 pounds (87 kg)
- Date of Birth: May 18, 2000
- Age: 26 years old
- Hometown: Chicago, Illinois
His frame allows him to match physical wideouts stride for stride while maintaining the fluid hips required to flip and run downfield.
Amateur Career and Collegiate Rise
Born in Chicago, Newsome spent his early high school years at Glenbard North High School in Carol Stream, Illinois. Seeking elite competition, he transferred to IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, for his senior season. That move sharpened his technique against top-tier national prospects.
He committed to Northwestern University, where he immediately stepped into a competitive environment. Over three seasons with the Wildcats, he appeared in 21 games, totaling 71 tackles, 24 passes defensed, and one interception.
The shortened 2020 COVID-19 season became his breakout campaign. Newsome led the Big Ten with nine pass breakups in just six games, earning first-team All-Big Ten honors and second-team All-America recognition from The Athletic. Rather than playing his senior year, he declared for the NFL Draft, cementing his status as an elite prospect.
NFL Draft and Professional Journey
The Cleveland Browns selected Newsome in the first round with the 26th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. His selection made history alongside college teammate Rashawn Slater, marking the first time Northwestern produced two first-round picks in the same draft class.
Cleveland Browns (2021–2025)
Newsome hit the ground running as a rookie. He started 11 of 12 games, recording 37 tackles and nine pass breakups. His disruptive coverage earned him a spot on the PFWA All-Rookie Team.
Over the next few seasons, he proved valuable due to his positional flexibility, moving comfortably between outside cornerback and the slot. His 2023 campaign stands as his statistical peak, where he posted 49 tackles, 14 passes defensed (tied for ninth in the NFL), two interceptions, and his first career defensive touchdown off a pick-six.
Jacksonville Jaguars and New York Giants
In October 2025, the Browns traded Newsome to the Jacksonville Jaguars. He finished out that season in Jacksonville, starting 11 games and anchoring the secondary with 52 total tackles and an interception.
Entering free agency in March 2026, Newsome signed a contract with the New York Giants. He slotted straight into their starting defensive backfield, continuing a durable career defined by high pass-breakup rates and consistent coverage grades.
Career Statistics Overview
Through his first six NFL seasons, Newsome's production highlights his role as an active tackler and a constant threat in passing lanes.
- Total Games Played: 71+
- Total Tackles: 200+
- Passes Defensed: 43+
- Interceptions: 4
- Sacks: 1.0
Frequently Asked Questions
What college did Greg Newsome II attend?
He played college football at Northwestern University before being selected in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft.
What is Greg Newsome II's primary position?
He plays cornerback, maintaining effectiveness both on the outside boundary and covering shifty slot receivers.
Which NFL teams has Greg Newsome II played for?
He began his career with the Cleveland Browns, was traded to the Jacksonville Jaguars during the 2025 season, and subsequently joined the New York Giants.
Has Greg Newsome II won any major individual awards?
Yes. He earned PFWA All-Rookie Team honors in 2021 and was named a first-team All-Big Ten selection alongside second-team All-American recognition during his final college season at Northwestern.
