5 Sleeper Cornerbacks in the 2025 NFL Draft

The 2025 NFL Draft boasts a deep pool of cornerback talent, with standout names like Travis Hunter and Will Johnson leading the pack. However, beyond these headline-makers, several underrated prospects deserve attention for their potential to make significant impacts at the professional level. Here are five such cornerbacks who, despite flying under the radar, could become valuable assets for NFL teams:

1. Quincy Riley, Louisville

Quincy Riley has showcased exceptional ball skills and coverage instincts during his tenure at Louisville. His ability to read quarterbacks and anticipate routes has led to numerous pass breakups and interceptions. Riley’s agility and quickness allow him to effectively mirror receivers, making him a formidable presence in the secondary. Despite not being a household name, his consistent performance suggests he could be a steal in the upcoming draft.

2. Jesse Johnson III, Austin Peay

Coming from a smaller program, Jesse Johnson III might not have garnered the same attention as his peers from larger schools. However, his physical attributes—standing at 5’11” with a 79-inch wingspan—combined with his football lineage as the nephew of former NFL star Antonio Cromartie, make him an intriguing prospect. Johnson’s length and instincts enable him to disrupt passing lanes effectively, and his under-the-radar status could make him a valuable late-round selection.

3. Cam Stone, Hawaii

Cam Stone has been a standout performer for Hawaii, consistently demonstrating his ability to lock down receivers and make impactful plays. His speed and fluidity in coverage allow him to stay stride-for-stride with opposing wideouts, while his physicality aids in contested situations. Stone’s performances may have been overlooked due to his team’s lower profile, but his skill set indicates he has the tools to succeed at the next level.

4. Ameer Speed, Michigan State/Georgia

Ameer Speed is an intriguing prospect who started his career at Georgia before transferring to Michigan State. At 6’3″ with long arms, he has the prototypical size that NFL teams covet in press-man corners. While his college production wasn’t eye-popping, his length and athleticism make him an intriguing developmental prospect. With the right coaching at the next level, he could blossom into a reliable outside corner.

5. D.J. James, Auburn

D.J. James quietly put together a strong career at Oregon before transferring to Auburn, where he showcased his ability to play both man and zone coverage effectively. He’s got fluid hips, quick reaction time, and solid ball skills, making him a solid sleeper in this draft class. His ability to disrupt routes and compete against SEC receivers should not go unnoticed by NFL scouts.

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alleyesdbcamp

Owner at All Eyes DB Camp

Chad Wilson is the founder of All Eyes DB Camp and a former standout defensive back for the Miami Hurricanes. After an elite collegiate career, Wilson spent a season with the Seattle Seahawks before transitioning into coaching. A 3-time Florida state champion defensive coordinator, he has spent over 20 years developing the "All Eyes" blueprint that has produced NFL All-Pros and stars like Xavien Howard, Patrick Surtain II, Tyson Campbell, Minkah Fitzpatrick and more. His coaching system is proven at the highest levels—his own sons, Quincy and Marco Wilson, both excelled as starters in the SEC before being drafted into the NFL.

Chad is the author of "101 DB Tips"—The Ultimate DB Reference Guide. You can find more information on the manual and how to order your copy in the sidebar and footer of this page.

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