Nov 16, 2024; Boulder, Colorado, USA; Colorado Buffaloes wide receiver Travis Hunter (12) carries for a touchdown in the fourth quarter against the Utah Utes at Folsom Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images We understand all too well that quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen drive success in the NFL.
Sure, an anomaly like a 2,500-yard season from start to finish by Super Bowl champion Saquon Barkley and a defensively dominant Eagles squad is always possible.
But above any other position, the one teams are constantly trying to get right is quarterback. And Philadelphia showed last season that talent in the defensive backfield is essential to stopping top passers. Two rookies played key roles in the secondary after the Eagles used their top two picks on Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean — whose pick-six of Mahomes helped open the floodgates to Philly’s win.
A strong group of cornerbacks to blanket opposing receivers is becoming vital to surviving a polished passing attack. This year, the potential additions to the secondary are impressive, with man and zone coverage specialists who could bring a spark to any team. Here are the top five prospects who can fit almost any scheme.
Travis Hunter, Colorado
Hunter could put on a show if he chooses to work out 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 stated he could pull it off as a pro. Hunter was listed as a cornerback first at the combine, and it remains his strongest position.
His impressive man coverage ability comes from his quick footwork and fluid hips, which allow him to track the ball with ease and make plays. It’s part of the reason he won the Heisman last December. While not a true speedster, he has enough deep speed to keep up with most NFL wideouts. He is the clear-cut No. 1 cornerback and the top overall player in this class.
Will Johnson, Michigan
Michigan defensive back Will Johnson (2) high-fives fans during warm up before the Michigan State game at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor on Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024. PHOTO USA TODAY SPORTS IMAGES Johnson brings good size and knows how to use it. His physicality stands out at the cornerback position, making him well-rounded in both pass coverage and run support. His instincts help in this regard, allowing him to quickly shift downhill or engage receivers. So why isn’t Johnson the top corner in this class?
The physical nature of his play puts him at risk for injury, which manifested last season, limiting his 2024 game tape to just a handful of games. Johnson carries high upside if he can stay healthy.
Jahdae Barron, Texas
Jul 12, 2023; Arlington, TX, USA; A view of the Texas Longhorns helmet and logo during Big 12 football media day at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images An incredibly flexible defensive back who can play on the boundary or as a nickel/slot option, Barron even has the skills to slide to safety in a pinch.
No matter where he lines up, ball production is likely to follow. Barron is a true ballhawk with exceptional body control. He can quickly close on receivers in zone coverage to break up a pass or force a turnover. His tackling is impressive, and he’s a reliable force in run support. Some scouts argue Barron looks a bit too stiff, which could lead to him getting more safety reps if he can’t loosen up, but his versatile skill set will be an asset to any secondary.
Trey Amos, Mississippi
Oct 12, 2024; Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA; LSU Tigers tight end Mason Taylor (86) makes a first down against Mississippi Rebels cornerback Trey Amos (9) during the second half at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images A human highlight reel with impressive speed, Amos held Georgia’s Arian Smith in check and isn’t afraid to get physical. He tied for fifth in the FBS with 16 passes defended in 2025 (13 pass breakups, three interceptions). His quick turns and sudden movements make him an unpredictable impact player, the type who can flip the field in an instant. His frenzied play can sometimes lead to tackling lapses, but Amos is a true stud and should be a first-round pick.
Shavon Revel Jr., East Carolina
Michigan wide receiver Cornelius Johnson makes a catch against East Carolina defensive back Shavon Revel during the second half of U-M’s 30-3 win on Saturday, Sept. 2, 2023, at Michigan Stadium. PHOTO USA TODAY SPORTS IMAGES Revel might be the most athletic of the bunch. After an injury, his draft grade involves too much projection to make him a surefire first-rounder. But based on talent, a general manager willing to trust their eyes and see the bigger picture could come away with a serious steal on draft day. His 2024 season ended with a knee injury in practice last September, but his 2023 tape shows he has the twitchiness, agility and length to thrive in a press scheme.
