2026 Defensive Backs

 NUMERICAL RATINGS/DRAFT VALUE EXPLANATION CORNERBACKS  

95-100 ELITE PLAYER, Yearly in All Pro debate, consistently a Top 5 player at the position, can change the direction of the franchise.  Likely a league MVP at some point of his career potentially more than once. Face of the franchise, elite level football IQ, high personal character and while talent can trump that for some it cannot for me for this level of rating. Expect elite level performance and undeniable team leadership for 10/15 years. Possible Hall of Fame Career. TOP 5/10 DRAFT PICK

90-94   Top 5/10 at the position most years, All Pro 3-5 years over 10/15-year career with drafting team, may possibly win a MVP award with a special season. Capable of turning the fortunes of a franchise as long as other pieces in place.  One of the primary faces of the franchise, high football IQ, preferred high personal character team leader on the offensive side. Consistently a top-level performer in all years, could make HOF ballot for a few years.    Mid/Late 1st round draft pick

82-89 Solid at the position. Look for 8/12-year career perhaps spending last few as a backup. Possibly an All-Pro season or two should   finish in top half of players at position most years.  Very good but not great.  Very solid and dependable player. Team will be looking for replacement after 5/7 years, may not find one but looking. 2nd contact with drafting team 50/50. 2nd/3rd round

74-81 Flaws that can possibly be overcome. Could be, lack of ideal arm strength, prototypical size or athleticism, mechanical issues, could be injury or personality concerns. Likely 3/5-year career max at starter level in most cases, then relegated to backup duty. Rare players with a few years of patience, good coaching, along with a strong personal work ethic can evolve to more. Potential to become long term starter but the team will always be looking for a better option, this can last for many years, but player will be on the bubble year to year. 2nd contract with drafting team unlikely.  Draft 3rd/4th round

65-73 Numerous flaws, Injury concerns or physical limitations. May start a year or two for a desperate team. Could be star players with serious injury concerns, some with rare physical attributes who will need serious coaching and patience, some who never found a fit in college.   Likely a 3-to-5-year career then on the bubble, some players can carve out a longer career or even start will hard work and patience or as a backup if willing to play for multiple teams over career.  Some fortunate few beat the odds and find a long-term home; most are out of football within 5 years.   Draft 4th/5th round

57-64 Career backup/ developmental player.  At this point the draft is even more of a gamble.  Could be formerly high rated recruit who failed to live up to expectations. Could be star players with serious injury concerns, some with rare physical attributes who will need serious coaching and patience, some who never found a fit in college. Some can develop (Brady) but this is rare. likely will begin as a #3 or practice squad player, the rest depends on patience and work ethic. Player not finishing rookie contract with drafting team is more likely. Will live on the bubble.  Draft 6th/7th round

50-56 Developmental Practice squad player. Another home for those who did not find great success in college or after much hype in High School. 1 in 50 can beat the odds and have a longer career. Just an arm for practice and scout team, the "preferred walk on" of the NFL, could, could, develop into role player with tenacity and patience. Likely just on roster a year or two at best as a practice player not active on game days.  Draft late 7th round/Priority Free Agent (PFA) Free Agent (UDFA)

45-49 Player for Training Camp or practice squad 1 in 100 will carve out a longer career due to incredible diligence and tenacity. Only active when team needs a body for a couple games due to injuries.. Not long for the team. Week to Week. Likely will sign with several teams over a few years. Teams will lead these guys on often knowing they will never play a down for them. Better not completely leave school before graduation that degree will be necessary. Free Agents only. (UDFA)

Under 45 Training camp body at best, HOPE YOU GOT YOUR DEGREE!!! THE REAL WORLD IS COMING!!!!!!!!! Well maybe after numerous stints in Arena Ball or the UFL!!  Players with a specific skill or perhaps tremendous intangibles worthy of a Camp Invite, 1 in 500 make more of it like making the practice squad for a year or two. Frankly, GM's who sign these guys for anything more than a camp body will be looking for work soon. Free Agents only. (UDFA)

 EXPLANATION OF OTHER TERMS

BUST ALERT!!! A player highly ranked by many others but one I do hold in the same regard.  Also, this term will be used for players who I call "ONE YEAR WONDERS" these players are either freakish athletes or players who had one season that FAR exceeded their previous production creating serious risk.   This term will be reserved for 1st round projections where mistakes can cripple a franchise.
OVERRATED ALERT!!! Similar to the above but not as extreme, for after 1st/2nd rounds.. Players are not as highly rated so mistakes while still important do not carry the same weight.  There are multiple reasons for this designation some but not limited to character, talent, injuries,college scheme or system.  

UNDERRATED ALERT!!! Players I feel deserve a higher ranking than many/most other so called experts.  These players in the future will be referred to as "STEALS" but I want it known my evaluation were on point when they were drafted.

SLEEPER ALERT!!!! A player that perhaps played in a poor scheme for his talents, suffered from poor coaching, revolving door coaching, poor supporting cast but has shown flashes that can lead him to success in the proper environment.

POSITION CHANGE ALERT!!! These are players who I feel due primarily to their skill set or more rarely at times measurables  will reach their maximum level of NFL success by changing from their primary College position.  

CHARACTER ALERT!!!  This designation is reserved for players who have had multiple issues concerning there character. This can be legal issues, multiple transfers, poor practice habits, friction with teammates and/or Coaches, Academic issues and or any other infraction that brings into question the players decision making. Teams must weigh the risk/reward related to these players VERY CAREFULLY!!  
INJURY ALERT!!!! A player with serious injury concerns, medicals vital. Possibly multiple injuries while in college or one severe injury. Also could have a long history in College and even perhaps High School "Injury Prone" is the common term.   If you are missing time on the field you are costing your team $$$$           

           2026 OUTSIDE CORNERBACKS

This year I will continue to split up the CB position; with evolution the NFL game has created a need for both outside and inside CBs with both requiring specific skills.  Success at one does not automatically guarantee success at the other. I DID THIS FOR SEVERAL YEARS BEFORE ANYONE ELSE!!

2026 OUTSIDE CORNERBACK OVERVIEW:

More questions than normal in this group, every player has some type of red flag but overall, a solid group with serious upside. Numerous players with excellent size and overall measurables, and great tacklers which I rate higher than most.

               2026 CORNERBACKS/CLASS GRADE     B

RK                    NAME               SCH      Ht     Wt    Rtg   RND                                                                                                               

1.Jermod McCoy                Tenn     6-1   188     93    Mid 1st

INJURY ALERT!! Yes, I get that rating a player #1 that missed last season due to injury is risky but I'm all in. In his only SEC season in '24 he was dominant. In just 18 starts over two season he totaled 16 PDs, 6 INTs and 75 tackles. He plays with fire, has prototypical size and speed and is fearless in run game. I'm confident his upside puts him ahead of the rest and had he played this past season he would have been a Top 5 pick!!

2.Mansoor Delane               LSU     6-0   187     91   Late 1st

Most others #1 is also a complete player, 40 career starts, 191 tackles, 7 TFLs, 41 PDs and 8 INTs.  Very smooth and experienced, ready to plug and play day one. my only concern with his game is his long speed could improve.

3.Chris Johnson                 SDSt     6-0   193     89    Early 2nd

1st team AA!  Among the fastest in the group, former HS WR has nice ball skills. Very willing in run support, 152 career tackles in slightly more than 3 season, big hitter having forced 5 fumbles but can struggle getting through traffic. Solid all-around game faced smaller conference foes but has all the tools to move to the next level. 

4.Davison Igbinosun         OSU     6-2   189     86    Mid 2nd

I'm a bit higher on him than most but those still rating him lower are caught up in his '24 tape, that season he was a late round option at best. After a tremendous amount of work and PRO-LEVEL coaching last season at OSU it would seem he has corrected his grabby problems. Tremendous size, excellent speed and solid in run game, I like his trajectory coming into the league.

5.Julian Neal                         Ark       6-2   203     84    Early 3rd

5-year player who has made tremendous strides the last two, moving up to SEC from MW was seamless, in fact he looked even better! Fearless tackler, excellent size and length, needs work on short are quickness and tech consistency, could be one to move to Safety at some point but teams will want him on the field.

6.Colton Hood                    Tenn      6-0   193     82    Mid 3rd

Really should have returned to school. 3 schools in 3 seasons. Shows excellent potential but technically amess in both coverage and run support. Patience will be needed but upside is high if a team gives him time.

7.Daylen Everette               Ga        6-1   196     80    Late 3rd

Once lofty recruit who shows flashes where you think he gets it, then effort is questioned at other times. If flash play isn't there, neither is he!

8.Keionte Scott                Mia(F)   5-11 193      78    Late 3rd

Big question is long speed also a gambler who WILL get burned; He may have to move to SCB or even be a small SS

9.Tacario Davis                  Wash     6-4   194      77   Early 4th

Very long and athletic but has shown little in run support and doesn't appear to care. Should be able to catch on as CB4/5 where his man coverage won't be exposed.

10.Domani Jackson          Ala       6-1    194      76   Early 4th

He took a step back last season, needed to move forward. Ball skills questionable with only 2 career picks and less than 15 PDs in 4 seasons. CB4/5. Should be a quality Special Teamer

11.Hesekiah Masses         Cal       6-1   179       75   Mid 4th

SLEEPER ALERT!! He moved up in competition and got even better, GREAT potential and upside, he can easily outplay this spot.

12.Malik Muhammad         Tx       6-0   182      72   Late 4th

Should have returned to school. Once lofty recruit has been consistently inconsistent. If he excels on ST he should by some time to live up to his abilities.

13.Will Lee                          TxA&M  6-2    190     70   Late 4th

Great size and athleticism. His game is technically very inconsistent, that will need to change.

14.Brandon Cisse             SCar      6-0   189      69    Early 5th

Many others love this guy, GREAT athlete with all the tools, unfortunately they only show in flashes.

15.Thaddeus Dixson       NCar     6-1    195     66    Late 5th

16.TJ Hall                             Iowa      6-1    195     64    Early 6th

17.Karon Prunty              WFrst     6-2   193     61    Late 6th

18.Latrell McCutchin       Hou      6-2   191     60    Late 6th

19.Charles Demmings     SFA      6-1   193     58    Early 7th

20.Rashad Battle              Pitt       6-3    195    56    Mid 7th

21.Tony Grimes                  Pur       6-1    190   55    Late 7th

22.Kolby Taylor              Vand       6-3    190   54    Late 7th

23.Jalen McMurray       Tenn       6-0    187   53    PFA

24.Avery Smith                Tol         5-11   196   52    PFA

25.Fred Davis                 NWest     6-0     197   51    PFA

26.Ahmart Harvey       GaTch    5-11   185    50    PFA

27.Jaylon Guilbeau        Tx         5-11   190    49    UDFA

28.Colin Wright              Stan       6-0     188     48   UDFA

29.Marcus Allen             NCar      6-2     187     47    UDFA

30.Denver Harris           UNLV     6-0     190     46    UDFA

31.Dreyden Norwood   Mo        6-0      187    45   UDFA

32.Deshawn Rucker     USF       6-0      195    44   UDFA

33.Devon Marshall       NCSt     5-11   200     43   UDFA

34.Jaidyn Davis             Memp   6-2     191     42   UDFA

35.Preston Hodge           Col      5-11   195      41   UDFA

36.Channing Canada     TCU    6-1      190     40    UDFA

37.Joshua Eaton          MichSt  6-1     189      39   UDFA

38.Jordan Young            Ark       6-0     197      38    UDFA

39.Malcom Dewalt         Akr      6-2      190      37   UDFA

40.Caleb Offord              Kenn    6-2       198     36   UDFA

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               2026 SLOT CORNERBACKS

A continued new position in 2020 and all years to follow, NFL execs would do themselves a favor if they adopted this as well. Today's NFL with at least 3 WRs on the field most downs this has become an actual position and one I believe should be evaluated and drafted for.  Short area quickness and "twitch" are both vital as well as effective tackling skills. Slot WR's can vary widely from larger framed leapers to diminutive "water bug' types so versatility is paramount to excelling at this position. Many players are of the smaller and quick mode, but you will also see a few larger players who I believe their skill sets fit better here.  While these players will be valuable pieces of the defense, on the field quite often and at times entire games rarely will you find a player I consider solid 1st round value.

2026 SLOT CORNERBACK OVERVIEW:

Nice class with numerous Day 1 and Day 

2 players available.

                2026 SLOT CORNERBACKS/CLASS GRADE 

RK                    NAME               SCH      Ht     Wt    Rtg   RND    A

1.D'Angelo Ponds                Ind      5-9    182     90    Late 1st

Pound for pound the toughest player in the draft. I love his game, fearless, elite change of pace, excellent technically, over 160 tackles, 7 INTs, 31 PDs in the last three seasons. Lined up on opponents #1 in a National Championship season. I put him here; he will be at his best at this position but in spite of his size he could very well end up outside and starting but long speed will be a question. Look for long, successful career from him.

2.Avieon Terrell                 Clem    5-11   186    89    Early 2nd

Another player who should excel here but can move outside in some situations. Fearless in run support, tough, tenacious with nice quickness big hitter caused 8 fumbles but only 3 INTs is concerning. Excellent hand usage and understands leverage but can struggle with longer receivers. Still a rock-solid Slot player who should have a nice career. 

3.Chandler Rivers               Dk       5-10   185    84    Early 3rd

32 career starts, fearless run defenders, 223 tackles, 16 TLFs!! Solid in coverage, very quick, fast and surprisingly physical for size. 29 PDs and 7 INTs for career.

4.Keith Abney                     AzSt     5-10   187    80     Late 3rd

Tough, physical CB who will need to make it inside due to length and long speed concerns. Solid in run support with over 90 tackles last two seasons, also had 21 PDs and 5 INTs. Should provide a solid 3/4 CB for many teams and be solid on ST.

5.Al'Zillion Hamilton      FrSt      5-11   185    77     Early 4th

Tough, strong, solid run defender with 6 INTs and 16 PDs last two seasons. Will need to excel on ST while his game evolves. Has the tools to make it work.

6.Tyreek Chappell         TxA&M   5-10   185    76    Early 4th

Willing tackler but needs some tech work, very quick with solid long speed. Excels at keeping contact with WRs. Lots to work with, should be a solid Special Teamer.

7.Lardarius Webb           WFrst     5-9     168    75    Mid 4th

Undersized, lightning quick and very hard to shake causing QBs to look elsewhere, willing tackler who will need that to stick around long-term but a solid cover guy.

8.Toriano Pride                     Mo      5-10   185    71    Late 4th

Excellent quickness and speed, 4 INTs and 12 PDs last two season. He will need to show more interest in tackling and contribute on ST, or his stay will be shorter than it should.

9.Jadon Canady                Ore       5-11   181    69      Early 5th

Multi-year starter at SCB, 17 PDs last two seasons

10.Josh Moten                  SMiss    6-0     174    68      Mid 5th

SLEEPER ALERT!!! Played outside at S Miss, will need to move inside but some excellent potential here with 10 INTs and 15 PDs last two seasons.

11.Bret Austin                     Cal      5-11    180    66     Late 5th

12.Jeremiah Wilson      FlaSt    5-10    185     64    Early 6th

13.Michael Coats            WVir       5-9      178    62    Mid 6th

14.DJ Harvey                      USC     5-11    174    60     Late 6th 

15.Ricardo Hallman       Wisc     5-10    185    58    Early 7th

16.Ayen Garnes                 Az         6-0      183     56    Mid 7th

17.Nasir Bowers              Tol         5-9      182     55    Mid 7th

18.Cam Miller                   Rut        6-0      184     54    Late 7th

19.Theran Johnson       Ore        5-11    182    53     PFA

20.Ceyiar Wright            Neb        6-0     180     52     PFA

21.Aamaris Brown        UNLV     5-10   190     51     PFA

22.Brain Blades               FIU       5-10    172     50     PFA

23.Michael Dansby        Az         5-11    185     49     UDFA

24.Elijah Culp                 JMU      5-11    187     46     UDFA

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     NUMERICAL RATINGS/DRAFT VALUE EXPLANATION SAFETY

95-100 ELITE PLAYER, Yearly in All Pro debate, consistently a Top 5 player at the position, can change the direction of the franchise.  Likely a league MVP at some point of his career potentially more than once. Face of the franchise, elite level football IQ, high personal character and while talent can trump that for some it cannot for me for this level of rating. Expect elite level performance and undeniable team leadership for 10/15 years. Possible Hall of Fame Career. TOP 5/10 DRAFT PICK

90-94   Top 5/10 at the position most years, All Pro 3-5 years over 10/15-year career with drafting team, may possibly win a MVP award with a special season. Capable of turning the fortunes of a franchise as long as other pieces in place.  One of the primary faces of the franchise, high football IQ, preferred high personal character team leader on the offensive side. Consistently a top-level performer in all years, could make HOF ballot for a few years.    Mid/Late 1st round draft pick

82-89 Solid at the position. Look for 8/12-year career perhaps spending last few as a backup. Possibly an All-Pro season or two should   finish in top half of players at position most years.  Very good but not great.  Very solid and dependable player. Team will be looking for replacement after 5/7 years, may not find one but looking. 2nd contact with drafting team 50/50. 2nd/3rd round

74-81 Flaws that can possibly be overcome. Could be, lack of ideal arm strength, prototypical size or athleticism, mechanical issues, could be injury or personality concerns. Likely 3/5-year career max at starter level in most cases, then relegated to backup duty. Rare players with a few years of patience, good coaching, along with a strong personal work ethic can evolve to more. Potential to become long term starter but the team will always be looking for a better option, this can last for many years, but player will be on the bubble year to year. 2nd contract with drafting team unlikely.  Draft 3rd/4th round

65-73 Numerous flaws, Injury concerns or physical limitations. May start a year or two for a desperate team. Could be star players with serious injury concerns, some with rare physical attributes who will need serious coaching and patience, some who never found a fit in college.   Likely a 3-to-5-year career then on the bubble, some players can carve out a longer career or even start will hard work and patience or as a backup if willing to play for multiple teams over career.  Some fortunate few beat the odds and find a long-term home; most are out of football within 5 years.   Draft 4th/5th round

57-64 Career backup/ developmental player.  At this point the draft is even more of a gamble.  Could be formerly high rated recruit who failed to live up to expectations. Could be star players with serious injury concerns, some with rare physical attributes who will need serious coaching and patience, some who never found a fit in college. Some can develop (Brady) but this is rare. likely will begin as a #3 or practice squad player, the rest depends on patience and work ethic. Player not finishing rookie contract with drafting team is more likely. Will live on the bubble.  Draft 6th/7th round

50-56 Developmental Practice squad player. Another home for those who did not find great success in college or after much hype in High School. 1 in 50 can beat the odds and have a longer career. Just an arm for practice and scout team, the "preferred walk on" of the NFL, could, could, develop into role player with tenacity and patience. Likely just on roster a year or two at best as a practice player not active on game days.  Draft late 7th round/Priority Free Agent (PFA) Free Agent (UDFA)

45-49 Player for Training Camp or practice squad 1 in 100 will carve out a longer career due to incredible diligence and tenacity. Only active when team needs a body for a couple games due to injuries. Not long for the team. Week to Week. Likely will sign with several teams over a few years. Teams will lead these guys on often knowing they will never play a down for them. Better not completely leave school before graduation that degree will be necessary. Free Agents only. (UDFA)

Under 45 Training camp body at best, HOPE YOU GOT YOUR DEGREE!!! THE REAL WORLD IS COMING!!!!!!!!! Well maybe after numerous stints in Arena Ball or the UFL!!  Players with a specific skill or perhaps tremendous intangibles worthy of a Camp Invite, 1 in 500 make more of it like making the practice squad for a year or two. Frankly, GM's who sign these guys for anything more than a camp body will be looking for work soon. Free Agents only. (UDFA)

EXPLANATION OF OTHER TERMS

BUST ALERT!!! A player highly ranked by many others but one I do hold in the same regard.  Also, this term will be used for players who I call "ONE YEAR WONDERS" these players are either freakish athletes or players who had one season that FAR exceeded their previous production creating serious risk.   This term will be reserved for 1st round projections where mistakes can cripple a franchise. 

OVERRATED ALERT!!! Similar to the above but not as extreme, for after 1st/2nd rounds. Players are not as highly rated so mistakes while still important do not carry the same weight.  There are multiple reasons for this designation some but not limited to character, talent, injuries, college scheme or system. 

UNDERRATED ALERT!!! Players I feel deserve a higher ranking than many/most other so-called experts.  These players in the future will be referred to as "STEALS" but I want it known my evaluation were on point when they were drafted.

SLEEPER ALERT!!!! A player that perhaps played in a poor scheme for his talents, suffered from poor coaching, revolving door coaching, poor supporting cast but has shown flashes that can lead him to success in the proper environment.

POSITION CHANGE ALERT!!! These are players who I feel due primarily to their skill set or more rarely at times measurables will reach their maximum level of NFL success by changing from their primary College position.  

CHARACTER ALERT!!!  This designation is reserved for players who have had multiple issues concerning their character. This can be legal issues, multiple transfers, poor practice habits, friction with teammates and/or Coaches, Academic issues and or any other infraction that brings into question the players decision making. Teams must vet, weigh the risk/reward related to these players VERY CAREFULLY!!  

INJURY ALERT!!!! A player with serious injury concerns, medicals vital. Possibly multiple injuries while in college or one severe injury. Also, could have a long history in college and even perhaps High School "Injury Prone" is the common term.   If you are missing time on the field, you are costing your team $$$$        

STRONG SAFETY.

This position it is a MUST to excel in run support, being fearless, confident at the same time having the athletic ability to cover the RB's and the increasingly athletic TE's as well as WR's moving through their zone.                             .   

 2026 STRONG SAFETY POSITION OVERVIEW  

Mot a very deep or talented class this year. Most of these players will need the right fit. be package type players and Special Teamers

             STRONG SAFETY RANKINGS/CLASS GRADE D

RK                    NAME               SCH      Ht     Wt    Rtg   RND 

1.E McNeil-Warren              Tol      6-3    201     86    Mid 2nd

Ultra rare to have a MAC player at the top but here we are. I see him as a close to the line SS type so scheme will be important. Vicious in run defense, over 200 tackles and 8 FF last 3 seasons. Reads, reacts and attacks with excellent processing, rarely getting fooled. He will need some adjustment time for competition but there will be no problems there. Not the strongest in pass defense and will need some work there, acts more on instinct than reads, that will expose him at NFL level, but athleticism and football IQ are high so he will adjust.

2.AJ Haulcy                            LSU     6-0   215      84    Early 3rd  

High producing SS who played at 3 schools finishing in the SEC. Great size, average speed so inside box safety is where he will make it. Career numbers are impressive, over 340 tackles, 4 FF and in coverage 10 INTs and 17 PDs. Best case for him would be some sort of hybrid SS/OLB where he could use his best traits.

3.Zakee Wheatley         PennSt    6-3    208    82      Mid 3rd

5-year player who really improved the past two. Great size, smooth, strong tackler, more of a reactor than pre snap reader but has the athleticism to make it work. Average in coverage, how well he consumes the NFL playbook will determine if he is just situational player or full-time. Should be of great value on ST.

4.Deshon Singleton        Neb     6-3    205    80     Late 3rd

High character former CB who has earned Academic honors throughout career. Still learning the position but made great strides last two seasons. Great size, strength, speed combo who should be an absolute demon on ST while he earns field time in secondary.

5.VJ Payne                            KanSt   6-3    206     78     Late 3rd

Former HS LB who is athletic enough to have played some CB. Run defender 1st, 2nd, but a good one who could get easily better with some tackle tech work and coaching. Sideline to sideline in run game, a liability in coverage at this point, may be relegated to packages and ST but should find his niche.

6.Jalen Kilgore                    SCar    6-1   210     76     Early 4th

Tremendous athlete who used that to play all over the field. Shows some ball skills with 7 INTs and 15 PDs, show to be a willing tackler but tech-wise he has numerous issues. Should be a major ST contributor.

7.Xavier Nwankpa             Iowa    6-2   208    70     Late 4th

I'm higher on him than other. Well coached, long and very athletic. Needs some work on ball skills but will be a core Special Teamer Day one, worth the slot.

8.Jakobe Thomas             Mia(F)  6-1   211    69     Early 5th

I'm not as high on him as some but he has a place in the league. Marginal athlete for the position but plays with heart and fire. That should make him and solid B/U and an excellent Special Teamer.

9.R Spears-Jennings        Okl       6-2   205     68    Early 5th

Plays like a LB, unfortunately he covers like one also, limiting him to B/U role and Special Teams, he should be quite good on ST if he decides he wants to be.

10.Austin Brown                Wisc     6-1   215    64    Early 6th

Great size/athleticism should excel on Special Teams.

11.DQ Smith                         SCar    6-1   219    62    Mid 6th 

Scheme fit will be crucial, very smart player, could move into a hybrid LB/SS role.

12.Skyler Thomas          OreSt     6-2   212    60    Late 6th

13.Ahamad Moses            SMU      5-9  196    58    Early 7th

SLEEPER ALERT!! Undersized but 104 tackles and 5 INTs last season.

14.Wydett Williams         Miss      6-2   210    57    Mid 7th

15.Jalon Catalon               Mo       5-10  205    56    Late 7th

I once thought he would be much better.

16.Devonta Smith (CB) NDme  6-0    205    55    Late 7th

POSITION CHANGE ALERT!! 

17.Eli Blakely                  Mia(O)    6-2    208   53     PFA

18.Cole Wisniewski      TxTch     6-3    218    51    PFA

19.Jacob Thomas           JMU       6-1    212    49    UDFA

20.Miles Scott                   ILL        5-11   210     45    UDFA

21.Daylan Carnell           Mo         6-2    225     44    UDFA

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FREE SAFETY:

The last line of the defense. These players require a versatile skill set. Not only do they have to cover half the field, or more they need to have CB cover skills, the tackling mentality of a SS. Having nice length make this spot easier but numerous smaller players have found great success here. I like taller college CB's to make this move sooner rather than later, but NFL execs and coaches are stubborn and frankly STUPID and refuse to accept this reality, they would rather to continually stuff round pegs into square holes!

    2026 FREE SAFETY POSITION OVERVIEW 

This position is led by the best player in this draft, also I love Thienemans game and see him as an ALL-PRO also

                  FREE SAFETY RANKINGS/CLASS GRADE    A

RK                    NAME               SCH      Ht     Wt    Rtg   RND

1.Caleb Downs                     OSU     6-0    206    99   Top 5

BEST PLAYER IN THE DRAFT, NUFF SAID!! Coach on the field!

2.Dillon Thieneman          Ore      6-0     201   92    Late 1st

UNDERRATED ALERT!!  I'm much higher on him than most others and I'll own it. Over 300 tackles last three seasons, more athletic than most think, dominant run defender who may have to move to SS, but he has the athleticism to play here. If he dedicates himself to improving his coverage ability, he will earn this spot, NO WAY he gets drafted this high.

3.Bud Clark                          TCU        6-0   185   84    Early 3rd

Undersized 6-year player but very tough and experienced. Over 200 tackles, 15 INTs and 20 PDs last 4 seasons, he just is always around the ball.

4.Kamari Ramsey             USC       6-0    202   83    Early 3rd

High football IQ player, student of the game and that is what he plays with. Average athlete but with superior reads and understanding he is where he needs to be. Should be an OUTSTANDING Special Teamer

5.Michael Taffe                    Tx         6-0    190   82    Mid 3rd

UNDERRATED ALERT!! I love this kid's game, classic former walk-on high energy, high motor overachiever. 5th-year player with 36 career starts, always where he should be, more athletic than people think, he will be an absolute demon on Special Teams.

6.Treydan Stukes (CB)     Az        6-1    190    73    Late 4th

POSITION CHANGE ALERT!! College CB who I believe needs to be rated here where he will end up. Nice athlete but not strong in coverage but has solid balls skills. Not a great tackler but uses athleticism to run down ball carriers. I;m not sure where he fits, scheme will be vital.

7.Jalen Huskey                Md        6-1    196       70     Late 4th

Show nice ball skills with 10 INTs in last 3 seasons, 72 tackles last fall, should be a solid athletic B/U and Special Teamer

8.Andre Fuller (CB)       Tol         6-1    200       69    Early 5th

POSITION CHANGE ALERT!! College CB with below average skills for position. Nice size and athleticism

9.Louis Moore                Ind         5-11    191      68   Early 5th

Undersized for the position but fearless competitor with some ball skills ,6 INTs last season, plus 90tackles.

10.Bishop Fitzgerald     USC     5-11   201      66   Mid 5th

Very active and smart player. Excellent in coverage, 10 career INTs. With some tackle tech work he should excel on Special Teams and as a quality depth piece.

11.Genesis Smith             Az         6-2    202       65   Late 5th

One of the top cover players in the group. Unfortunately, it ends there. Poor tackler dictates this position, and Special Teams may be a problem. I'm far from sure he will ever be more thabn a B/U and not be a threat on ST??? I've seen him rated much higher, that will be someone else's problem.

12.Ephesians Prysock   Wash     6-3    198      62    Late 6th

POSITION CHANGE ALERT!! Another college CB. Has shown ball skills lacking for that position but long and athletic and a willing tackler so Special Teams will be his ticket to staying in the show.

13.Lorenzo Styles           OSU      6-1    194       61   Late 6th

Blazer who can help on ST, nice KR potential also.

14.Devin Moore (CB)      Fla       6-3    198       60    Late 6th

POSITION CHANGE ALERT!! If he's going to make it, it will have to be here. 

15.Jalen Stroman         NDme   6-1     201      59   Early 7th

16.Decarlos Nicholson  USC     6-3    200      58    Early 7th

17.Malik Spencer         MichSt   6-1    192      56     Mid 7th    

18.Nick Anderson         WFrst    5-11  197      55     Mid 7th

19.Isaiah Nwokobia       SMU     6-1    202     54     Late 7th

20.C Powell-Lee              GaTch   6-2    200     53     PFA

21.Phillip Dunham          UCF      6-1    195     52     PFA

22.Silas Walters             Mia(O)   6-1   194      51     PFA

23.Key Lawrence            UCLA     6-0   205     50     PFA

24.Jarrod Washington SCSt      6-2   188     49     UDFA(CB)

25.Dalton Johnson          Az       5-11    192    48     UDFA

26.Kapena Gushiken     Miss      6-0   190     44     UDFA

27.Brylan Green               Lib         5-9   180    43     UDFA

28.Duce Chesnut             Syr        5-11 200     42   UDFA

29.Bryce Anderson     TxA&M   5-11   192    40    UDFA