noti.group’s Ryan Dunleavy gives his top 10 cornerbacks in this year’s NFL draft, based on evaluations and conversations with people around the league:
1. Fernando Mendoza, Indiana, 6-5, 236
Should complete the trifecta: Heisman Trophy, national champion, No. 1 pick. Takes a licking and keeps on ticking (especially pre-transfer at California). Accurate thrower and quick decision-maker. King of the back-shoulder fade. Raises his game in clutch moments. Self-described “nerd.”
2. Ty Simpson, Alabama, 6-1, 2-11
Five-star recruit made all 15 career starts in 2025, after three seasons on the bench. Set Alabama record for lowest interception percentage (five on 523 passes). Throws with anticipation. Operated mostly from shotgun. Extends plays to his detriment. Play tailed off late in season.
3. Garrett Nussmeier, LSU, 6-2, 203
Sounded alarms when a fifth-year senior is benched in his final game. More of a daredevil mentality than expected from a coach’s son (father is Saints offensive coordinator). Cut down on interception rate in 2025. Invents new arm angles. Senior Bowl MVP.
[Notigroup Newsroom in collaboration with other media outlets, with information from the following sources]
