With the 2026 NFL Draft approaching, Sweet Science Sports breaks down the top cornerback prospects in this year's class. From seasoned SEC starters to All-American transfer portal success stories, this group brings versatility, length, and ball production that NFL teams covet.
Will Lee III - Texas A&M (Sr., 6-2 / 189)
Named to the 2024 Second Team All-SEC at Texas A&M, Lee proved himself as one of the more reliable starting corners in college football's most competitive conference. He broke up 10 passes and started every game during his tenure with the Aggies before declaring for the 2026 NFL Draft. His length and consistency make him an attractive prospect for teams looking for a press-man corner at the next level.
Malik Muhammad - Texas (Jr., 6-0 / 182)
One of the younger prospects in this class, Muhammad earned 2025 Preseason All-SEC recognition after starting 16 games as a draft-eligible sophomore for the Longhorns. He posted 36 tackles and 8 pass breakups, showcasing the instincts and athleticism that made him one of Texas's most important defenders. His youth and upside make him a tantalizing pick for a team willing to invest in his development.
Brent Austin - Cal (Sr., 5-11 / 180)
Austin's journey is one of the better stories in this draft class. After stops at USF and JMU, he made his way to Cal in 2025 and immediately made noise - tying for 2nd in the country in pass breakups. His production across multiple programs speaks to both his competitiveness and his ability to adapt. He declared for the 2026 draft on the strength of that standout season.
Davison Igbinosun - Ohio State (Sr., 6-2 / 189)
A three-year starter for the Buckeyes after transferring in, Igbinosun built one of the most impressive resumes in this cornerback class. He surpassed 200 career tackles, was named to the All-Big Ten team in 2025, and led Ohio State in pass breakups. His size, experience, and production at a blue-blood program should draw significant interest from NFL scouts.
Daylen Everette - Georgia (Sr., 6-1 / 196)
Everette earned 2025 AP First Team All-SEC honors after a dominant regular season and a strong postseason run with the Bulldogs. At 6-1 and 196 pounds, he has the frame NFL teams want at the position. His ability to perform under the brightest lights in college football - both in-season and in bowl play - adds to his already strong draft stock heading into 2026.
Chandler Rivers - Duke (Sr., 5-10 / 185)
Rivers put together arguably the most decorated résumé of any corner in this class. A First Team All-ACC selection and 2025 All-American (The Athletic), he recorded 3 or more interceptions in 2024 and followed that up with 40 solo tackles in 2025. He's compact but plays with exceptional football IQ and instincts - the kind of ball-hawk that defensive coordinators build coverages around.
DeVonta Smith - Notre Dame (Sr., 5-11 / 195)
Not to be confused with the Eagles' receiver, this DeVonta Smith is a seasoned Notre Dame cornerback who has earned his own recognition. A 2025 Second-Team All-American (AP/AFCA), Smith racked up 18 pass breakups and 5 interceptions, displaying rare ball production for a corner. His experience in Notre Dame's pro-style system and his physicality at 195 pounds give him an NFL-ready profile.
Devon Marshall - NC State (Sr., 5-11 / 200)
Marshall made the transition from Villanova to the ACC in 2024 and didn't miss a beat. After earning the starting left cornerback spot at NC State, he went on to lead the entire ACC in pass breakups in 2025. His ability to step into a Power Five role and immediately excel - while playing the toughest receivers in the conference - is a strong signal of his NFL readiness.
Hezekiah Masses - Cal (Sr., 6-1 / 185)
Masses may be the most productive defender in this entire class by the numbers. After moving from FIU to Cal in 2025, he led the entire nation with 18 passes defended, earning Second Team All-America honors. At 6-1, he has the length to match up with NFL-caliber receivers, and his production against FBS competition in his first season at the Power Four level is nothing short of remarkable.
The 2026 NFL Draft is loaded with cornerback talent, and this group represents some of the best the college game has to offer. Stay tuned to Sweet Science Sports for continued draft coverage as we get closer to draft weekend.
