We understand too well that quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen drive success in the NFL.
Sure, an anomaly like a 2500-farm season from beginning to end by the Super Bowl champion Saquon Barkley and a defensively dominant Eagles squad is always possible.
But above any other position, one team is constantly trying to get the right quarterback. And Philadelphia showed last season that talent in the defensive backfield is crucial to stop the top passers. Two beginners played key roles in the secondary after Eagles used their two best choices on Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper Dejean-Varn’s Pick Sex by Mahomes helped open the flood gates for Philly’s winnings.
A strong group of cornerbacks for blanket opposite recipients become crucial to surviving a polished attack. This year, the potential additions to the secondary are impressive, with specialists on man and zont cover that can give a spark to all teams. Here are the five best outlooks that can fit almost any system.
Travi’s Hunter, Colorado
Hunter could put on a show if he chooses to train at Colorado’s Pro Day on Friday. He would probably prefer to be listed as a WR/CB hybrid, and a few teams have publicly said he could deduct it as a professional. Hunter was listed as a cornerback first at Combine, and it is still his strongest position.
His impressive man coverage of one comes from his rapid footwork and floating hips, which allows him to track the ball with ease and play. That is part of the reason why he won Heisman in December last year. Although he is not a real speedster, he has enough deep speed to keep up with most NFL width. He is the clear No. 1 Cornerbacken and the overall player in this class.
Will Johnson, Michigan
Michigan Defensive Back Will Johnson (2) High-Fives fans under heating before Michigan State game at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor on Saturday October 26, 2024. Photo USA Today Sports Images Johnson gives good size and knows how to use it. His physicality stands out at the Cornerback position, which makes him well rounded in both pass coverage and driving support. His instincts help in this regard, which allows him to quickly switch down or engage recipients. So why is Johnson not the top corner of this class?
The physical nature of his game puts him at risk of injury, which manifested last season, which limited his 2024 game band to just a handful of games. Johnson carries high up if he can stay healthy.
Jahdae Barron, Texas
July 12, 2023; Arlington, TX, USA; A view of Texas Longhorn’s helmet and logo under Big 12 Football Media Day at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Pictures Barron is an extremely flexible defensive back that can play on the border or as a nickel/slot option.
No matter where he is standing, ball production will probably follow. Barron is a real Ballhawk with exceptional body control. He can quickly close recipients in zont cover to break up a passport or force a turnover. His tackle is impressive, and he is a reliable force in driving support. Some Speids claim that Barron looks a little too stiff, which can cause him to get more security representatives if he cannot loosen, but his versatile competence set will be an asset to all secondary.
Trey Amos, Mississippi
October 12, 2024; Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA; LSU Tiger Tight End Mason Taylor (86) makes a first down towards Mississippi Rebels Cornerback Trey Amos (9) during the second half at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Iimagn Pictures Amos, a human highlight at impressive speed, held Georgia’s Arian Smith in check and is not afraid to become physical. He tied for fifth in FBS with 16 passports that were defended in 2025 (13 passport divisions, three interceptions). His rapid turns and sudden movements make him an unpredictable impact player, the type that can turn the field in an instant. His frenzy games can sometimes lead to him tackling decay, but Amos is a real stud and should be a first choice.
Shavon Revel Jr., East Carolina
Michigan Breda receiver Cornelius Johnson makes a catch against East Carolina Defensive Back Shavon Revel during the second half of UM’s 30-3 victory on Saturday, September 2, 2023 at Michigan Stadium. Photo USA Today Sports Pictures Revel is perhaps the most athletic in gang. After an injury, his draft means for a lot of projection to make him a safe first round. But based on talent, a manager who is willing to trust their eyes and seeing the bigger picture can get away with a serious steal on the draft. His season 2024 ended with a knee injury in practice in September last year, but his band 2023 shows that he has jerkiness, agility and length to thrive in a press schedule.
