John Canady

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/USATSI_24613984-scaled-e1740150517978-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/ncaaf/article/top-10-offensive-linemen-in-college-football-for-2025-2">Top 10 CFB OL in 2025 </a>
With one top cornerback exiting for the NFL Draft in 2025, that just means there's more room for the youth in Michigan's room to thrive. That's exactly the case with <a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/jyaire-hill/45279">Jyaire Hill</a>. Not only does Hill have great size, he tracks the football very well and pairs it with good top end speed and overall athleticism. Hill is difficult to win one-on-one battles against for opposing offenses. Although he can improve on his physicality, there's too much in his player package to not see him hit in a big way for the Wolverines.

1) Jyaire Hill, Michigan

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/USATSI_25050660-scaled-e1740150572651-768x431.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/malik-muhammad/41178">Malik Muhammad</a> is one of the more complete cornerbacks that college football has to offer in 2025. He doesn't excel at a ton of things, but he does the majority of things really well, helping him become a real weapon in the secondary for the Longhorns. Muhammad's length helps separate him from some of the smaller framed defensive backs. He reads plays really well off the line, and is really disruptive in his run defense support. It's hard to see him falling off with the continued body of work he's put together.

2) Malik Muhammad, Texas

https://web.sportsgrid.com/assets/images/AZ_FanCash_Day_Affiliates.webp

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/USATSI_25247449-scaled-e1747186246382-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/leonard-moore/46093">Leonard Moore</a> put together an impressive freshman season for Notre Dame, totaling 48 tackles, 11 pass defenses, two interceptions, and two forced fumbles. The versatile safety quickly proved to be a vital piece for Marcus Freeman's defense. Heading into next year, Moore can take another leap as a defender.

3) Leonard Moore, Notre Dame

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/USATSI_25181734-scaled-e1740150598948-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/ncaaf/article/top-35-college-football-quarterbacks-for-the-2025-season">Top 35 CFB QBs in 2025</a>
<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/jermaine-mathews/38147">Jermaine Mathews Jr.</a> immediately is recognizable with his agility, physicality, and high-end football IQ. His role on defense is going to continue expanding for the Buckeyes in 2025 as they look to defend their national title. Mathews Jr. plays with a quiet confidence, which stems from his ball tracking skills, and his overall top end speed. There's a lot to like about what he's going to bring to the table in the college football world moving forward.

4) Jermaine Mathews Jr., Ohio State

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/USATSI_24881252-scaled-e1740754328281-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/jermod-mccoy/38616">Jermod McCoy </a>is a strong cornerback for the Tennessee Volunteers, known for his exceptional athleticism and playmaking abilities. Standing 6 feet tall and weighing 193 pounds, McCoy combines size, speed, and agility to excel in both man and zone coverage schemes. If the Volunteers defense wants to excel again in 2025, McCoy will be a big part of their secondary.

5) Jermod McCoy, Tennessee

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/USATSI_24591422-scaled-e1747186321170-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/dangelo-ponds/42344">D'Angelo Ponds</a> began his college career at James Madison before following head coach Curt Cignetti to the Big Ten, joining Indiana. In his first season with the Hoosiers, the Florida native continued his strong play, totaling 55 tackles, nine pass defenses, and three interceptions. Heading into Year 3, Ponds can prove he's a top secondary defender.

6) D'Angelo Ponds, Indiana

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/USATSI_24656231-scaled-e1747186644921-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/aj-harris/49464">A.J. Harris</a> started his college career at Georgia, but was lost in the Bulldogs' talented secondary depth chart. The defensive back transferred to Penn State for his sophomore season. In his first season with the Nittany Lions, the six-foot-one defender proved to be an immediate impact, totaling 48 tackles, five pass defenses and an interceptions. With the instincts and frame to be a disruptor in coverage, Harris has plenty of room to continue getting better.

7) A.J. Harris, Penn State

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/USATSI_25042659-scaled-e1740754295865-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/avieon-terrell/37257">Avieon Terrell</a> is a promising cornerback for the Clemson Tigers, standing 5-foot-11 and weighing 180 pounds. He joined Clemson in 2023 after a standout career at Westlake High School in Atlanta, Georgia. Terrell exhibits excellent ball skills, effectively tracking the ball downfield and demonstrating the coordination to secure interceptions. He possesses great ball skills, fluid athleticism, and the agility to cover slot receivers.

8) Avieon Terrell, Clemson

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/USATSI_24836131-scaled-e1747186788542-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/jeremiah-wilson/23863">Jeremiah Wilson</a> spent two seasons at Syracuse before transferring to Houston. The Florida native totaled four pass defenses and four interceptions this past season for the Cougars. Wilson will have the opportunity to be an immediate impact player in the ACC next season after transferring to Florida State in the spring transfer portal cycle.

9) Jeremiah Wilson, Florida State

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/USATSI_24839771-scaled-e1747187028864-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/cameron-calhoun/21781">Cameron Calhoun</a> impressed during his freshman season at Utah this year, racking up 21 tackles, nine pass defenses, and an interception. The Ohio native used the strong campaign to cash in on the transfer portal heading to the SEC to join Alabama ahead of next season. Calhoun could put his name on the map with a big season for the Crimson Tide next year.

10) Cameron Calhoun, Alabama

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/USATSI_24130738-scaled-e1740150627250-768x431.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/king-mack/49454">King Mack</a> looks the part of another anchor in the secondary of the Alabama Crimson Tide. Mack has a high-end football IQ that allows him to read routes at an elite level and make plays on opposing pass catchers. Even though his size doesn't pop, that doesn't mean you should discount his ability as a hitter and ball hawk. Mack has the athleticism and physicality in his game to cover bigger body players than you'd expect for someone of his stature.

11) King Mack, Alabama

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/USATSI_24877471-scaled-e1740150655250-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/ncaaf/article/top-20-running-backs-for-the-2025-college-football-season">Top 20 CFB RBs in 2025</a>
There's a lot to like about the value that <a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/smith-snowden/21830">Smith Snowden</a> can offer a secondary. Snowden plays well in defending the run with a strong tackling ability, paired with his ability to close a gap and make a hit. His athleticism pops with his high-end speed, making him a player that tracks the ball well in coverage and can also create turnovers.

12) Smith Snowden, Utah

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/USATSI_25098493-scaled-e1740754260291-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/elliot-washington/49521">Elliot Washington II</a> is a high-upside defensive back with the tools to be a starting corner at the collegiate level and beyond. His physicality, instincts, and coverage skills make him a valuable asset in both man-heavy and hybrid defensive schemes. With continued development in zone awareness and tackling consistency, he has the potential to be an impact player in a Power Five secondary and a future NFL prospect.

13) Elliot Washington II, Penn State

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/USATSI_24833463-e1740754363994-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/dijon-johnson/44115">Dijon Johnson</a> is a high-upside defensive back with the size, length, and athleticism to develop into a lockdown corner at the collegiate and potentially NFL level. With continued refinement in his technique and route recognition, he has the potential to be a multi-year starter for the Florida Gators and a future NFL prospect.

14) Dijon Johnson, Florida

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/USATSI_24894713-scaled-e1740754404120-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/damari-brown/22815">Damari Brown</a> is a promising cornerback for the Miami Hurricanes, standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 195 pounds. Brown's strengths include his physicality and ball-tracking abilities. He excels in press-man coverage, utilizing patient footwork and fluid hips to mirror receivers effectively. His willingness to engage in run support and deliver impactful tackles adds to his defensive versatility.

15) Damari Brown, Miami

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/SPORTSGRID-SMYLIE-PR-768x432.png

Check out The Smylie Show on SportsGrid

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/USATSI_24546860-1-scaled-e1747855742823-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/tacario-davis/63995">Tacario Davis</a> entered the portal last offseason but opted to stand pat at Arizona for one more season. However, the cornerback re-entered the portal this offseason and found a fit with his former head coach, Jedd Fisch, at Washington in January. Heading into 2025 under a coach who knows how to use him to his strengths, Davis could be in store for a huge season.

16) Tacario Davis, Washington

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/USATSI_24491407-scaled-e1747855886621-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/jalon-kilgore/33367">Jalon Kilgore</a> committed to South Carolina a top ranked safety in the 2023 recruited class. The Georgia native immediately impacted the Gamecocks' secondary, mainly with his versatility to play at both safety and corner, where he played as a nickel most of last season. With <a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/nfl/players/nick-emmanwori/86190">Nick Emmanwori</a> gone, Kilgore may be relied on to pivot back to safety this season, but his ability at corner will still be utilized. Kilgore will have the chance to prove he's one of the top secondary defenders in the nation next season.

17) Jalon Kilgore, South Carolina

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/USATSI_24886026-scaled-e1747856098699-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/jontez-williams/45160">Jontez Williams</a> broke out last season at Iowa State. The Florida native racked up 46 total tackles, five pass defenses, and four interceptions. Heading into 2025, the reliable defender will play a pivotal role in the Cyclones' secondary, especially if ISU hopes their defense can help them make a run for the Big 12 championship.

18) Jontez Williams, Iowa State

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/USATSI_21596601-scaled-e1747856314628-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/mansoor-delane/28877">Mansoor Delane</a> spent the last three seasons at Virginia Tech, where he proved to be one of the most reliable corners in the nation. Looking to prove he could be a lockdown defender against the top offenses in football, the defender entered the transfer portal and quickly found a home at LSU. Next season will be a pivotal year for Delane to showcase his versatility.

19) Mansoor Delane, LSU

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/USATSI_24181612-scaled-e1747856416742-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/brandon-cisse/17004">Brandon Cisse</a> was the top-rated defender in NC State's secondary this past season. The NC State corner entered the portal, hoping to find a spot with a contending team ahead of next season. His search led him back to his home state team, where he plans to suit up for the South Carolina Gamecocks in 2025. Cisse will be a key piece in South Carolina's secondary next season.

20) Brandon Cisse, South Carolina

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/USATSI_24290908-scaled-e1748116043497-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/josh-moten/33008">Josh Moten</a> initially committed to Texas A&amp;M out of high school before transferring to Marshall, seeking a larger role. The six-foot-one defender found exactly that with the Thundering Herd and quickly proved to be a top corner in the nation. Last season, the Maryland native put together a career-year, racking up 38 tackles, five pass defenses, and five interceptions. Heading into 2025, Moten looks to build on his strong season with a new squad at Southern Miss.

21) Josh Moten, Southern Miss

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/USATSI_24473832-scaled-e1748116075271-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/domani-jackson/19396">Domani Jackson</a> committed to USC as a top recruit out of high school. After two seasons with the Trojans, the versatile corner transferred to Alabama, where he quickly flourished in the Crimson Tide's secondary. After a strong 2024 campaign totaling 51 tackles, seven pass defenses, two interceptions, and a forced fumble, Jackson can prove he's a top corner next season.

22) Domani Jackson, Alabama

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/USATSI_24884018-2-scaled-e1748116112187-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/will-lee/45634">Will Lee III</a> began his career at Kansas State before transferring to Texas A&amp;M. The six-foot-three defender impressed at both stops, proving to be a reliable corner in any system. Next season, Lee will be depended on to anchor the Aggies' defense against the top offensive threats in the SEC.

23) Will Lee III, Texas A&M

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/USATSI_25245155-scaled-e1748116146758-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/daylen-everette/22657">Daylen Everette</a> has spent the last three seasons at Georgia, where he's improved each year. Coming off a career year, the Bulldogs defender heads into 2025 with the opportunity to put his name on the map ahead of next year's NFL Draft. As one of the leaders on Georgia's defense, expect big things from Everette.

24) Daylen Everette, Georgia

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/USATSI_24780930-scaled-e1748116183694-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/dj-harvey/49323">DJ Harvey</a> spent two seasons at Virginia Tech before transferring to San Jose State in 2023. Last season, the California native put together a breakout season totaling 58 tackles, six pass defenses, four interceptions, and two sacks. Harvey heads into 2025 with the opportunity to continue proving he can contribute consistently at a high level.

25) DJ Harvey, San Jose State

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/USATSI_26052194-scaled-e1749053292525-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/davison-igbinosun/38104">Davison Igbinosun</a> began his career at Ole Miss before transferring to Ohio State after one season with the Rebels. Since joining the Buckeyes, the six-foot-two corner has impressed quickly, immediately impacting the team's secondary. Coming off a career year, totaling 45 tackles, nine pass defenses, and two interceptions, Igbinosun heads into 2025 with a chance to build on an impressive resume.

26) Davison Igbinosun, Ohio State

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/USATSI_24534430-scaled-e1749053333231-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/antonio-kite/48450">Antonio Kite</a> committed to Auburn as a top recruit out of high school, but has yet to find a sizable role with the Tigers to showcase why he was highly recruited. Despite that, there's no way to ignore the skillset of the Alabama native. If he can earn an expanded role in Hugh Freeze's defense this coming season as expected, he should easily be able to prove the hype was warranted. Kite is a dynamic corner with good size and will have the opportunity to put his name on the map this season.

27) Antonio Kite, Auburn

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/USATSI_25974016-scaled-e1749053370584-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/dj-mckinney/39466">DJ McKinney</a> started his career at Oklahoma State, where he spent two seasons before transferring to Colorado. In his first year with the Buffaloes, the six-foot-two defender put together a career-year, racking up 61 tackles, eight pass defenses, three interceptions, and a forced fumble. Heading into Year 2 under Deion Sanders, McKinney has a prime opportunity to prove he's a top corner in the nation.

28) DJ McKinney, Colorado

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/USATSI_24879907-scaled-e1749053405766-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/xavier-scott/22335">Xavier Scott</a> was one of the driving forces behind Illinois' defensive turnaround success over the last couple of seasons. The Florida native has shown out in the Fighting Illini's secondary over the last couple of seasons, and his development has been precisely what NFL teams hope to see in the prospects they're scouting from day one. Last season, Scott totaled 49 tackles, six pass defenses, four interceptions, one sack, and one forced fumble.

29) Xavier Scott, Illinois

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/USATSI_24133356-scaled-e1749053447851-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/ricardo-hallman/34029">Ricardo Hallman</a> has spent four seasons at Wisconsin and heads into 2025 set to suit up for the Badgers for his fifth season. In 2024, the defender has a bit of a down season, but one year prior in 2023, he racked up seven interceptions to pair with 34 total tackles and five pass defenses. If Hallman can get back to his play from 2023, he'll without a doubt be a top corner next season.
&nbsp;

30) Ricardo Hallman, Wisconsin

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/USATSI_24877471-scaled-e1749670079652-768x431.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/smith-snowden/21830">Smith Snowden</a> spent the last two seasons at Utah after committing to the Utes as a highly recruited in-state prospect out of high school. The corner put together a very impressive sophomore season in 2024, racking up 48 total tackles, eight pass defenses, two interceptions, and one forced fumble. Snowden's versatility will allow him to continue rising up draft boards, especially if he builds on his career with a strong 2025 campaign.

31) Smith Snowden, Utah

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/USATSI_24310787-scaled-e1749658898216-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/ethan-oconnor/20508">Ethan O'Connor</a> quickly impressed during his freshman season at Washington State, racking up 32 total tackles, eight pass defenses, and four interceptions. The defender entered the transfer portal at the start of the offseason and immediately became a top defender on the market. Miami struck quickly and brought in the talented corner to fix the Hurricanes' worrisome secondary. O'Connor will not only fortify Mario Cristobal's secondary, but he'll have the chance to prove he's a top corner in the nation against ACC competition.

32) Ethan O'Connor, Miami

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/USATSI_24776429-e1749658830674-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/kayin-lee/48496">Kayin Lee</a> enters year three with Auburn for the 2025 season. In 2024, the Georgia native showed plenty of promise for being a reliable defender in the Tigers' secondary, totaling 32 tackles, seven pass defenses, and two interceptions. Lee has a chance to continue his development in the SEC next season and has high expectations for him to show even more improvement. 
&nbsp;

33) Kayin Lee, Auburn

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/USATSI_25913223-scaled-e1749658865745-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/jacobe-johnson/21168">Jacobe Johnson</a> committed to Oklahoma as a top recruit out of high school. In his first two seasons with the Sooners, the six-foot-two corner saw limited opportunities to make an impact. However, in 2025, Johnson will likely see increased usage, which should bode well for him to showcase why he was deemed a highly ranked prospect due to his size and defensive instincts.

34) Jacobe Johnson, Oklahoma

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/USATSI_25912094-e1749670359122-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/tony-grimes/19835">Tony Grimes</a> originally committed to North Carolina as a top recruit in his respective class. After three seasons with the Tar Heels, the six-foot-two corner transferred to UNLV, where he spent one season before entering the portal once again. Landing at Purdue, Grimes has an opportunity to prove that his talent and ability to be a consistent defender can flourish in the right system.

35) Tony Grimes, Purdue 

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/USATSI_24235381-scaled-e1750261421671-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/thaddeus-dixon/32642">Thaddeus Dixon</a> entered the transfer portal this offseason and immediately became one of the best available cornerbacks. The defender had plenty of suitors, but the fit was crucial for the Washington transfer. After landing at North Carolina, the defender will have the chance to learn under a defensive guru in Bill Belichick and prove just how impactful he can be in the secondary.

36) Thaddeus Dixon, North Carolina

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/USATSI_24724971-scaled-e1750261456828-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/channing-canada/39076">Channing Canada</a> committed to TCU as a highly recruited prospect out of high school and immediately made an impact in the Horned Frogs' secondary. In 2024, the Louisiana native put together a career season, totaling 31 tackles, two pass defenses, and an interception, while showing off his impressive instincts and coverage ability. Heading into year three at TCU, Canada has a significant opportunity to take another step and raise his draft stock.

37) Channing Canada, TCU

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/USATSI_24300237-scaled-e1750261509956-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/kendel-dolby/21208">Kendel Dolby</a> committed to Oklahoma as a top prospect and immediately showed out in the Sooners' defense, racking up 49 total tackles, four pass defenses, two sacks, and two interceptions in his first year with the team. The defensive stud entered the 2024 season with high expectations for another dominant season. Still, it was quickly ended after Dolby suffered a gruesome injury against Tennessee that ended his season early. However, the versatile corner is on the road to recovery, and if he hits the field nearly as well as he was before his injury, he'll undoubtedly be a top corner in the nation.

38) Kendel Dolby, Oklahoma

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/USATSI_21490801-scaled-e1750261557849-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/tyrice-ivy/31959">Tyrice Ivy Jr.</a> has spent the last two seasons developing in Oregon State's defense. Fresh off a career year, totaling 35 tackles and a pass defense. At six-foot-three, Ivy's size as an oversized corner allows him to be a threat as a reliable defender in coverage and tackling in the run game. If he can take another leap for the Beavers in 2025, he'll have plenty of NFL teams watching.

39) Tyrice Ivy Jr., Oregon State

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/USATSI_24216372-scaled-e1750261673457-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/brylan-lanier/31199">Brylan Lanier</a> joined Mississippi State ahead of the 2024 season after spending one year at Indiana in 2022. The physical corner became a top defender for the Bulldogs' secondary, totaling 53 tackles and an interception in his first season against SEC competition. Lanier could put his name on the map if he can put another season of similar production or take a step further in his development.

40) Brylan Lanier, Mississippi State

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/USATSI_24536927-scaled-e1750865933536-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/jaylen-mbakwe/19407">Jaylen Mbakwe</a> heads into 2025 looking to build on a solid freshman season. The Alabama native totaled 15 tackles, two pass defenses, and one interception this past year and started to show flashes of his reliability in the secondary down the stretch of the season. Mbakwe has high expectations entering next season.

41) Jaylen Mbakwe, Alabama

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/USATSI_24126270-e1750865965375-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/ellis-robinson/63790">Ellis Robinson IV</a> committed to Georgia as the top corner in his respective recruiting class. The former five-star has yet to earn a sizable role to showcase why he was highly recruited, but that could change this season with the turnover in the Bulldogs' roster. Don't be shocked to see Robinson put his name on the map this coming year.

42) Ellis Robinson IV, Georgia

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/USATSI_24883464-scaled-e1750866018567-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/zabien-brown/19394">Zabien Brown</a> put together an impressive freshman campaign at Alabama this past season, racking up 18 total tackles, three interceptions, and two pass defenses. The six-foot-corner has all the tools to be a top corner in the nation with his size and instincts in coverage. It won't be surprising to see Brown emerge as the top defender in the Crimson Tide's defense in 2025.

43) Zabien Brown, Alabama

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/USATSI_25091155-scaled-e1750866052104-768x432.jpg

Adding to the flurry of Alabama defenders on this list, <a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/zavier-mincey/19354">Zavier Mincey</a> comes in at No. 44. At six-foot-three, the Florida native is an oversized corner with explosive speed and underrated coverage abilities. As a reliable tackler, Mincey will be depended on in the Crimson Tide secondary next season as Kalen DeBoer expects the young corner to take a leap.

44) Zavier Mincey, Alabama

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/USATSI_24719678-scaled-e1750866090545-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/aaron-scott/38163">Aaron Scott Jr</a>. is another former top recruit who has yet to receive an opportunity to make an impact through the start of his career. Stuck behind a surplus of talent in the Ohio State secondary this past season, Scott struggled to carve out a role. However, 2025 could be the season for the Ohio native to finally get some burn and prove why the Buckeyes were so high on him out of high school.

45) Aaron Scott Jr., Ohio State

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/USATSI_25711018-scaled-e1751476312905-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/devin-sanchez/87299">Devin Sanchez</a> enters 2025 as the top incoming corner recruit set to join Ohio State's loaded secondary. As a freshman, it's rare to make an immediate impact in year one, but a talented prospect like Sanchez could be one of the rare exceptions who's able to do exactly that. Between his size and instincts in coverage, the Buckeye could immediately put his name on the map this season.

46) Devin Sanchez, Ohio State

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/USATSI_18716634-scaled-e1751476342751-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/dijon-lee/88081">Dijon Lee Jr.</a> is another highly recruited prospect to land on this list. The talented corner heads into next season with a chance to carve out a role in the Crimson Tide's secondary and prove he can make an impact early. The talent is there, but he'll have to work his way through a deep secondary room to see the field.

47) Dijon Lee Jr., Alabama

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/USATSI_25095469-scaled-e1751476377343-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/naeem-offord/87090">Na'eem Offord</a> is yet another top recruit set to fight his way through a deep secondary unit heading into 2025. However, as part of an Oregon defense, where Dan Lanning has proven to put confidence in young players, Offord has a solid opportunity to see the field early.

48) Na'eem Offord, Oregon

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/USATSI_13483392-scaled-e1751476411828-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/kade-phillips/87540">Kade Phillips</a> put together some of the best high school film before signing with Texas as a highly ranked recruit. The Longhorns may not rely on young secondary players early, but with the turnover in the defense, there's a chance Phillips hears his name called more frequently.

49) Kade Phillips, Texas

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/USATSI_21593830-scaled-e1751476455416-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/dj-pickett/87050">DJ Pickett</a> may be the least likely of young recruits to see the field in year one, but not because of a lack of talent. The corner has all the tools to be an early impact player, but it could be difficult to carve out a role early under head coach Brian Kelly, who made it a point of emphasis to find secondary help in the transfer portal. Nonetheless, Pickett could be a player to watch.

50) DJ Pickett, LSU

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/USATSI_26023181-scaled-e1752076428148-768x431.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/ify-obidegwu/29345">Ify Obidegwu</a> committed to Oregon as a top recruit out of high school but has yet to carve out a sizable role in the Ducks' defense due to the team's surplus of talent in the secondary. However, that could change in 2025 with the turnover in the team's defensive unit, which could lead to an increase in opportunity for Obidegwu.

51) Ify Obidegwu, Oregon

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/USATSI_25050645-scaled-e1752074235803-768x433.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/kobe-black/41094">Kobe Black</a> is another former top recruit who is patiently waiting his chance to prove how impactful he can be on the field. Black had minimal opportunities last season for the Longhorns, but buried in the depth chart of a loaded secondary unit put together by Steve Sarkisian and his defensive staff, the cornerback wasn't relied on heavily in 2024. Nonetheless, Black could be poised for a larger role heading into next season, and considering the flashes he has shown, he could put his name on the map.

52) Kobe Black, Texas

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/USATSI_24351297-scaled-e1752076510479-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/charles-lester/19685">Charles Lester III</a> hasn't gotten much run in Florida State's defense since committing to the Seminoles out of high school. Despite that, it's clear that the talent is there, and with the Seminoles in desperate need of help in the secondary, they could look to rely on Lester, who has the skillset to make an immediate impact.

53) Charles Lester III, Florida State

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/USATSI_25099281-scaled-e1752074343147-768x432.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/jon-mitchell/49409">Jon Mitchell</a> adds to the list of talented corners who fell victim to the loaded secondary room at Penn State. Mitchell never got a real chance to see the field, which led him to transfer to Georgia Tech in search of a larger role. The defender will have the opportunity to prove that he could have made an impact in the Big Ten with his new role in the ACC.

54) Jon Mitchell, Georgia Tech

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/USATSI_25968415-scaled-e1752076590897-768x433.jpg

<a href="https://www.sportsgrid.com/cfb/players/joziah-edmond/45293">Jo'Ziah Edmond</a> stood out during spring practice, and all signs point to the idea that the corner could finally be getting an opportunity in 2025 to be a key piece in Sherrone Moore's defense. Edmond has the perfect mix of talent and instincts to be a top defender in the nation, but he needs the time on the field to prove he can be exactly that.

55) Jo'Ziah Edmond, Michigan

Ranking the Top 55 College Football Cornerbacks for 2025

Debating golf's future, a player suggests bifurcating rules to defend classic courses like Saint Andrews against the power of new-age professional golfers.

Challenges of Defending St. Andrews Against Modern Golfers

&quot;Live from&quot; merges data and narrative for deep sports analysis, evolving over 20 years. Smylie Kaufman asks Brandel Chamblee about the show and its history.

How Golf Channel's 'Live From' Evolved in TV Sports Analysis

Smylie and Charlie recap Chris Gotterup's surprise Open Championship entry with a historic Scottish Open victory, showcasing remarkable driving prowess.

Chris Gotterup's Breakthrough Win at the Scottish Open

LATEST VIDEOS

CFB,NCAAF,college football betting odds,betting odds college football,college football draft betting odds,college football odds betting,college football betting odds explained,betting odds for college footballCollege Football predictions today,College Football predictions,College Football predictions for today,College Football betting predictions,today's College Football predictions,College Football previews today,College Football previews,College Football previews for today,College Football betting previews,today's College Football previewscollege football predictions tomorrow,college football games predictions,college football scores and predictions,college football today predictions,college football cornerbacks 2025,top college cornerbacks,best cornerbacks in college football,NCAA cornerback rankings,2025 college football prospects,elite college football cornerbacks,top NCAA defensive players 2025,college cornerback performance,promising college cornerbacks,standout college football players 2025,college football defensive stars,upcoming college football talents,college defensive back rankings,NCAA football player watch 2025,future NFL stars from college football,key college football players to watch,college football season highlights,top-ranked NCAA cornerbacks,college football analysis 2025,cornerback skills evaluation,defensive back college prospects,impact players in NCAA football,college football future stars,college sports player rankings,best NCAA cornerbacks by stats,2025 defensive players college football,college football defensive rankings,watch list college football players,college football top performances,scouting top college cornerbacks,top 2025 college cornerbacks,college football cornerback leaders,2025 cornerback recruit rankings,best NCAA DBs 2025,college football cornerback insights,NCAA top defensive backs 2025,must-watch cornerbacks in college,NCAA football 2025 top players,college football DB stars,2025 NCAA cornerback prospects,standout NCAA DBs,college football defensive talent 2025,top defensive college athletes 2025,NCAA 2025 football highlights,college cornerback scouting report,2025 college football defense watch,emerging NCAA cornerbacks,defensive backfield stars in NCAA,NCAA football defensive standouts,college football cornerback analysis,college football rising stars 2025,essential college cornerbacks to watch,NCAA football season 2025 prospects,college football defensive playmakers,best young cornerbacks in college,NCAA football future defensive leaders,top college football plays by cornerbacks,2025 college football defensive hopefuls,NCAA secondary players to watch,college football defensive game changers,Domani Jackson,Avieon Terrell,DJ McKinney,Dijon Johnson,Daylen Everette,Xavier Scott,Jontez Williams,Mansoor Delane,Damari Brown,Jyaire Hill,Davison Igbinosun,Jermaine Mathews Jr.,Elliot Washington II,King Mack,Brandon Cisse,Jalon Kilgore,Josh Moten,Jermod McCoy,Malik Muhammad,Will Lee III,Smith Snowden,Tacario Davis,Ricardo Hallman,Alabama Crimson Tide,Alabama  AL,SEC,I-A,Auburn Tigers,Auburn  AL,Clemson Tigers,Clemson  SC,ACC,Colorado Buffaloes,Colorado  CO,Big 12,Florida Gators,Florida  FL,Florida State Seminoles,Florida State  FL,Georgia Bulldogs,Georgia  GA,Illinois Fighting Illini,Illinois  IL,Big Ten,Indiana Hoosiers,Indiana  IN,Iowa State Cyclones,Iowa State  IA,LSU Tigers,LSU  LA,Miami (FL) Hurricanes,Miami (FL)  FL,Michigan Wolverines,Michigan  MI,Notre Dame Fighting Irish,Notre Dame  IN,Independent,Ohio State Buckeyes,Ohio State  OH,Penn State Nittany Lions,Penn State  PA,San Jose State Spartans,San Jose State  CA,Mountain West,South Carolina Gamecocks,South Carolina  SC,Southern Miss Golden Eagles,Southern Miss  MS,Sun Belt,Tennessee Volunteers,Tennessee  TN,Texas Longhorns,Texas  TX,Texas A&M Aggies,Texas A&M  TX,Utah Utes,Utah  UT,Washington Huskies,Washington  WA,Wisconsin Badgers,Wisconsin  WI,Thaddeus Dixon,Channing Canada,Kendel Dolby,Tyrice Ivy Jr.,Brylan Lanier

keywords

twitter:card

twitter:title

https://sg-images-bucket.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/thumnbail-webp/article/2106662-1920x1080.webp?v=1752650718

twitter:image

thumbnail

google

Explore our latest rankings of the top college football cornerbacks for 2025. Find out who makes the cut and why they're poised for greatness this season!

MORE ARTICLES

Sports Betting

Sportsbook Promos

Social Casinos