It’s that special time of the NFL offseason where we are caught in limbo between OTAs and training camp. For the most part, there’s not all that much happening on a day-to-day basis. Teams are gearing up to start gearing up for the season, if that makes sense. But given that we do have this nice break, it’s a good time to take stock of what we expect to see during the 2024 season. That’s why we’ve been running through each position, breaking down the top 20 players for 2024. We’re continuing that effort here by working through the league’s best cornerbacks.
Honorable mentions include Brian Branch, Tyson Campbell, Carlton Davis, Martin Emerson, Stephon Gilmore, Jaycee Horn, Taron Johnson, Kenny Moore, Greg Newsome II, Joey Porter Jr., Asante Samuel Jr., Darius Slay, A.J. Terrell, Tariq Woolen.
Now, let’s dive into the list of the top 20 cornerbacks for the upcoming NFL season:
20. Derek Stingley Jr., Texans
Stingley has shown great potential but has been plagued by injuries in his first two seasons. If he stays healthy in 2024, he could climb up the rankings with his impressive performance.
19. Rasul Douglas, Bills
Douglas has emerged as a solid coverage corner over the last few seasons, showcasing his ability to make plays on the ball and limit opposing receivers.
18. Jamel Dean, Buccaneers
Despite a down year in 2023, Dean’s consistent performance in previous seasons earns him a spot on the list of the top cornerbacks for 2024.
17. Daron Bland, Cowboys
Bland set an NFL record for pick-sixes and has been a standout performer in coverage, making him a valuable asset for the Cowboys’ defense.
16. Devon Witherspoon, Seahawks
Witherspoon has already shown star potential as a rookie and could further elevate his game under the guidance of a new coach in the upcoming season.
15. D.J. Reed, Jets
Reed has been a reliable corner for the Jets, excelling in coverage and run support, despite playing in the shadow of his more renowned teammate.
14. Kendall Fuller, Dolphins
Fuller’s consistent performance on the field has been underrated, and his move to Miami could bring more attention to his skills in the upcoming season.
13. Darious Williams, Rams
Williams returns to the Rams after a strong performance with the Jaguars, showcasing his versatility and effectiveness in coverage.
12. Trevon Diggs, Cowboys
Diggs, coming off an injury, will look to regain his form as a solid coverage corner for the Cowboys in 2024.
11. Marshon Lattimore, Saints
Lattimore’s high ceiling and improved coverage skills make him a key player for the Saints’ defense, despite occasional inconsistencies.
10. Marlon Humphrey, Ravens
Humphrey’s versatility and ability to adapt to different roles in the defense make him a valuable asset for the Ravens.
9. Denzel Ward, Browns
Ward’s consistent performance and physicality in coverage have made him a reliable corner for the Browns over the years.
8. L’Jarius Sneed, Titans
Sneed’s all-around skills in coverage, run defense, and blitzing make him a valuable player for the Titans, as he looks to maintain his performance outside of Kansas City.
7. Jaire Alexander, Packers
Alexander’s potential to be a shutdown corner is evident when he’s at his best, and a new defensive coordinator could help him reach new heights in 2024.
6. Jaylon Johnson, Bears
Johnson’s impressive performance in coverage and playmaking abilities earned him the top spot in PFF’s cover corner rankings, setting him up for success in the upcoming season.
5. Trent McDuffie, Chiefs
McDuffie’s versatility and ability to prevent big plays while excelling in different coverage roles make him a valuable asset for the Chiefs’ defense.
4. Charvarius Ward, 49ers
Ward’s development into a shutdown corner and his playmaking skills make him one of the best perimeter corners in the league.
3. Jalen Ramsey, Dolphins
Ramsey’s potential to excel in various coverage roles was underutilized last season, but a new defensive coordinator could help him showcase his full skill set in 2024.
2. Patrick Surtain II, Broncos
Surtain aims to bounce back from a down year and leverage his size, speed, and coverage abilities to challenge for the top spot among cornerbacks in the upcoming season.
1. Sauce Gardner, Jets
Gardner retains his position as the top cornerback heading into the 2024 NFL season, showcasing his exceptional coverage skills and playmaking abilities.
As we look ahead to the upcoming season, these top 20 cornerbacks are poised to make a significant impact on their respective teams and shape the outcomes of games with their exceptional talent and versatility.