The Giants knew the defense had to be upgraded after last season’s pitiful 3-14 campaign. So far, that’s been a top priority 24 hours into the start of free agency negotiations.

A day after agreeing to a deal with cornerback Paulson Adebo, the Giants did the same with former Dolphins safety Jevon Holland, a league source confirmed to Newsday. Holland agreed to a three-year deal worth at least $45.3 million, including $30.3 million guaranteed, per multiple reports.

Holland, a four-year veteran, was regarded as the top available safety on the market. He’ll immediately slot next to Tyler Nubin, who had a strong rookie season with 97 tackles before having ankle surgery in December.

Holland has five interceptions and 25 pass deflections in his career. In 2023, he had a 99-yard interception return for a touchdown along with three forced fumbles. As a rookie in 2021, Holland had two interceptions and three fumble recoveries.

Getting Holland also could be seen as the Giants’ front office atoning for letting safety Xavier McKinney walk last offseason. McKinney signed with the Packers for a four-year contract averaging $16.7 million per year and was an All-Pro in his first season.

Holland’s per year deal is just below that at $15.1 million. But between that and Adebo’s contract averaging $18 million per year, the Giants have shown a willingness to spend to upgrade key positions.

The Giants are still waiting to see what shakes out at the quarterback position with Aaron Rodgers, Russell Wilson or perhaps an option like Jameis Winston. That remains the Giants’ most critical hole to fill, and they’ll likely add another quarterback in April’s draft.

For now, they’ve addressed critical needs in their secondary with Holland and Adebo.