Chad Wilson
March 5, 2025
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.
Chad Wilson is the owner of All Eyes DB Camp and author of "101 DB Tips". He played college football at the University of Miami and briefly in the NFL for the Seattle Seahawks. Over his 15 year high school football coaching career, he tutored over a dozen Division I defensive backs and as a trainer has worked with NFL All Pros, first round draft picks, college football All Americans and Top 10 ranked high school football prospects.
