Best Cornerbacks in NFL History - Top 10 Legends
by B Kishwar
Updated May 31, 2023
Top 10 Cornerbacks Of All Time
10
Ty Law
New England Patriots
9
Aeneas Williams
Arizona Cardinals
8
Darrell Green
Washington Redskins
7
Charles Woodson
Oakland Raiders
6
Dick "Night Train" Lane
Detroit Lions
5
Champ Bailey
Washington Redskins
4
Mel Blount
Pittsburgh Steelers
3
Darrelle Revis
New York Jets
2
Rod Woodson
Pittsburgh Steelers
1
Deion Sanders
San Francisco 49ers
S. No
Best Cornerbacks in NFL
Team
Best Cornerbacks in NFL History
The history of the NFL has witnessed the rise of numerous exceptional athletes who have redefined the cornerback position and left an indelible mark on the sport. These elite individuals, known as the best cornerbacks in NFL history, have showcased unparalleled skills, extraordinary athleticism, and a unique ability to shut down opposing receivers. From their remarkable coverage skills to their game-changing interceptions and memorable plays, these cornerbacks have earned a place of distinction among the legends of the game. In this article, we will explore the careers of some of the greatest cornerbacks to ever grace the NFL and examine the impact they made on the game with their extraordinary talent and sheer dominance.
10. Ty Law (New England Patriots)
Ty Law is widely regarded as one of the best cornerbacks in NFL history, and his time with the New England Patriots solidified his place among the elite. Law played for the Patriots from 1995 to 2004, establishing himself as a key component of their dominant defense. Known for his physicality and exceptional coverage skills, Law was a force to be reckoned with on the field.
Law's contributions to the Patriots were pivotal in the team's success during his tenure. He played a crucial role in the Patriots' three Super Bowl victories in 2001, 2003, and 2004. His interception return for a touchdown in Super Bowl XXXVI against the St. Louis Rams was a defining moment in the game, helping the Patriots secure their first championship.
Law's ability to read quarterbacks and make timely interceptions was exceptional. He finished his Patriots career with 36 interceptions, including nine returned for touchdowns. His physicality was also noteworthy, as he often matched up against the opposing team's top receivers and consistently shut them down
9. Aeneas Williams (Arizona Cardinals)
Aeneas Williams, known for his time with the Arizona Cardinals, is considered one of the premier cornerbacks in NFL history. Williams played for the Cardinals from 1991 to 2000 before finishing his career with the St. Louis Rams. Throughout his career, Williams displayed exceptional skills and an uncanny ability to make game-changing plays.
Williams was known for his versatility, transitioning from safety to cornerback early in his career. His ability to excel at both positions showcased his football intelligence and adaptability. As a cornerback, Williams displayed excellent coverage skills, often blanketing opposing receivers and making it challenging for quarterbacks to complete passes in his direction.
During his time with the Cardinals, Williams was a standout player on a team that struggled for success. Nevertheless, he consistently showcased his skills, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections and All-Pro honors. His impact on the Cardinals' defense cannot be overstated, as he was often the team's primary defensive playmaker.
Off the field, Williams was also highly respected for his leadership and community involvement. His induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2014 further solidifies his legacy as one of the all-time great cornerbacks in NFL history.
8. Darrell Green (Washington Redskins)
Darrell Green, a legendary cornerback, spent his entire 20-year career with the Washington Redskins, making him one of the most iconic figures in the team's history. Green's remarkable speed and agility made him one of the most feared cornerbacks to face on the field.
Green's speed was unparalleled, earning him the title of the "Fastest Man in the NFL" during his prime. His incredible acceleration and ability to close gaps quickly allowed him to keep up with even the swiftest receivers. Green's speed was a significant asset in both pass coverage and as a punt returner.
Despite his smaller stature, Green possessed incredible technique and instincts. He had an uncanny ability to anticipate routes and make crucial interceptions. Throughout his career, he recorded 54 interceptions, including six returned for touchdowns.
Green's impact on the Redskins' defense was immeasurable. He played a vital role in the team's two Super Bowl victories in 1982 and 1987. Green's longevity and consistency were also remarkable, as he remained a key contributor well into his 40s.
Off the field, Green was highly regarded for his character and sportsmanship. His contributions to the community and his unwavering commitment to excellence have cemented his status as one of the greatest cornerbacks in NFL history.
7. Charles Woodson (Oakland Raiders)
Charles Woodson, a dynamic and versatile cornerback, made a significant impact on the field during his illustrious NFL career. After being selected by the Oakland Raiders in the first round of the 1998 NFL Draft, Woodson quickly established himself as one of the premier cornerbacks in the league. Known for his exceptional coverage skills, intelligence, and physicality, Woodson became a formidable force for opposing offenses to reckon with.
During his time with the Oakland Raiders, Woodson showcased his playmaking ability, recording numerous interceptions and delivering bone-crushing hits. His remarkable instincts and ability to read the game allowed him to excel in both man-to-man and zone coverage. Woodson's relentless pursuit of excellence earned him the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award in 1998 and four Pro Bowl selections during his first stint with the Raiders.
After spending seven seasons with the Green Bay Packers, Woodson returned to the Raiders in 2013, where he displayed remarkable consistency and leadership. His exceptional performances earned him the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award in 2009, making him the first cornerback to win the prestigious accolade in over a decade.
Woodson's impact extended beyond his on-field contributions. He was revered as a mentor and leader in the locker room, guiding younger players and setting an example of professionalism and work ethic. His storied career solidified his legacy as one of the greatest cornerbacks in NFL history, and in 2018, he was rightfully enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
6. Dick "Night Train" Lane (Detroit Lions)
Dick "Night Train" Lane, a trailblazer in the cornerback position, left an indelible mark on the NFL during his storied career with the Detroit Lions. Lane's arrival in the league in 1952 introduced a new era of aggressive, ball-hawking cornerbacks. With his exceptional size, speed, and physicality, Lane revolutionized the position and set numerous records that still stand today.
Lane's intimidating presence on the field was matched by his extraordinary playmaking ability. He possessed an uncanny knack for intercepting passes, earning him the NFL record for most interceptions in a single season with 14 in 1952, a record that remains unbroken. His exceptional ball skills, combined with his aggressive tackling style, made him a formidable force in the Lions' defense.
Known for his trademark move, the "Night Train Necktie," Lane would clothesline receivers with his arm to disrupt their routes. This physicality, combined with his coverage skills, made it incredibly challenging for opposing offenses to move the ball through the air.
Lane's impact extended beyond his playing career. He paved the way for future generations of cornerbacks and set the standard for the aggressive, playmaking style that is now synonymous with the position. In recognition of his remarkable contributions to the game, Lane was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1974, solidifying his status as one of the greatest cornerbacks in NFL history.
5. Champ Bailey (Washington Redskins)
Champ Bailey, widely regarded as one of the most dominant cornerbacks in NFL history, made his mark during his illustrious career with the Washington Redskins. Bailey's exceptional athleticism, speed, and versatility allowed him to excel in coverage and shut down some of the league's most formidable receivers.
After being selected by the Redskins in the first round of the 1999 NFL Draft, Bailey quickly emerged as a force to be reckoned with. His fluid hips, exceptional footwork, and ability to mirror receivers made him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks. Bailey possessed a rare combination of speed and agility, allowing him to cover the entire field and neutralize the best wide receivers in the game.
Throughout his tenure with the Redskins, Bailey earned numerous accolades, including seven Pro Bowl selections and three First-Team All-Pro honors. His exceptional consistency and durability were evident as he started every game in nine of his ten seasons with the team.
Bailey's ability to make game-changing plays was a testament to his remarkable skills. He recorded 52 interceptions and returned them for a total of 464 yards and four touchdowns during his career. His playmaking ability was complemented by his exceptional tackling skills, making him a complete cornerback.
In 2004, Bailey was traded to the Denver Broncos, where he continued his dominant play and further solidified his legacy. His exceptional career earned him a spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2019, cementing his status as one of the greatest cornerbacks to ever grace the NFL.
4. Mel Blount (Pittsburgh Steelers)
Mel Blount, who played his entire NFL career with the Pittsburgh Steelers from 1970 to 1983, is widely regarded as one of the most dominant cornerbacks in league history. Standing at 6 feet 3 inches tall, Blount possessed a rare combination of size, strength, and speed that allowed him to excel in press coverage. His physicality and aggressive style of play revolutionized the cornerback position and prompted rule changes to limit contact with receivers.
Blount's imposing presence on the field made it incredibly difficult for opposing wide receivers to gain separation. He had exceptional speed and agility, which allowed him to shadow receivers effectively and disrupt passing plays. Blount's superb ball skills and timing resulted in crucial interceptions and game-changing turnovers for the Steelers' defense.
Blount's remarkable career accomplishments include five Pro Bowl selections and three First-Team All-Pro nods. He played a pivotal role in the Steelers' dominant defense of the 1970s, helping the team win four Super Bowl championships. Blount's impact on the game extended beyond his playing days, as he became an influential figure in advocating for the rights and opportunities of former players through his work with the Mel Blount Youth Home.
3. Darrelle Revis (New York Jets)
Darrelle Revis, known for his exceptional technique and shutdown ability, established himself as one of the premier cornerbacks of his era. Revis played for multiple teams during his career, but it was with the New York Jets that he made his biggest impact. Revis spent his first six seasons with the Jets (2007-2012) and returned for a final season in 2015.
Revis' trademark was his lockdown coverage skills, often eliminating the opposing team's top receiver from the game. His ability to mirror routes and stick to receivers like glue earned him the nickname "Revis Island." Quarterbacks were reluctant to throw in his direction, and when they did, Revis was adept at breaking up passes or coming away with interceptions.
During his time with the Jets, Revis earned seven Pro Bowl selections and was named First-Team All-Pro four times. His impact was felt both on and off the field, as he helped anchor the Jets' defense and became a leader in the locker room. Revis's dominance at the cornerback position solidified his status as one of the best in the league and earned him a place among the all-time greats.
2. Rod Woodson (Pittsburgh Steelers)
Rod Woodson, an exceptional athlete and versatile defensive back, had a remarkable career that spanned 17 seasons in the NFL. Although he played for multiple teams, including the Pittsburgh Steelers, San Francisco 49ers, Baltimore Ravens, and Oakland Raiders, Woodson's prime years were spent with the Steelers.
Woodson possessed a unique combination of speed, agility, and football intelligence that allowed him to excel at multiple positions, including cornerback and safety. His coverage skills were outstanding, as he displayed the ability to shut down receivers and make crucial interceptions. Woodson's versatility also enabled him to contribute as a return specialist, adding another dimension to his game.
During his time with the Steelers, Woodson earned numerous accolades, including seven Pro Bowl selections and three First-Team All-Pro honors. He played a vital role in the Steelers' success, including helping them win Super Bowl XXX. Woodson's impact extended beyond his individual accomplishments, as he served as a mentor to younger players and was widely respected for his leadership qualities.
1. Deion Sanders (San Francisco 49ers)
Deion Sanders, widely known as "Prime Time," is arguably the greatest cornerback in NFL history. His electrifying speed, unmatched athleticism, and flamboyant personality made him a true icon of the game. While Sanders played for multiple teams during his career, including the Atlanta Falcons, Dallas Cowboys, and Baltimore Ravens, it was with the San Francisco 49ers that he made a significant impact.
Sanders was a game-changer on defense, known for his ability to completely neutralize opposing wide receivers. Quarterbacks often avoided throwing in his direction due to his exceptional coverage skills and lightning-fast reaction time. Sanders had incredible instincts, agility, and footwork, allowing him to mirror the movements of even the most elusive receivers.
During his time with the 49ers, Sanders earned numerous accolades, including eight Pro Bowl selections and six First-Team All-Pro nods. He played a pivotal role in the 49ers' Super Bowl victory in 1994, showcasing his exceptional skills on the grandest stage. Sanders' impact on the game extended beyond defense, as he also made significant contributions as a dynamic return specialist.
Off the field, Sanders became a cultural phenomenon and one of the most recognizable figures in sports. His flashy playing style, unmatched charisma, and larger-than-life personality made him a fan favorite and helped popularize the cornerback position. Deion Sanders' impact on the game and his enduring legacy as one of the greatest cornerbacks of all time are unquestionable.
Who is the Best Cornerback in the NFL?
Deion Sanders, widely regarded as one of the greatest cornerbacks in NFL history, showcased an unparalleled level of skill, athleticism, and versatility throughout his illustrious career. While he played for multiple teams, including the Atlanta Falcons, Dallas Cowboys, San Francisco 49ers, Washington Football Team, and Baltimore Ravens, it was with the San Francisco 49ers that Sanders made a significant impact and solidified his status as the best cornerback in the NFL.
Sanders' exceptional speed and agility set him apart from his peers. He possessed the rare ability to effortlessly transition from backpedaling to full sprint, allowing him to stick with even the fastest receivers. His fluid hip movements and impeccable footwork enabled him to mirror routes with incredible precision, effectively shutting down opposing passing attacks.
What truly distinguished Sanders was his unmatched playmaking ability. He possessed extraordinary ball skills and a knack for making game-changing interceptions and crucial defensive plays. Quarterbacks often hesitated to throw in his direction, as Sanders had a remarkable ability to anticipate routes and make acrobatic interceptions or deflections. His interceptions frequently resulted in touchdowns or set up favorable field position for his team.
Sanders was not just a shutdown cornerback; he was also a dynamic return specialist. His agility, speed, and vision made him a threat to score whenever he touched the ball on punt or kick returns. Sanders' ability to flip the field and create scoring opportunities on special teams added another dimension to his already impressive skill set.
Beyond his physical attributes, Sanders possessed a charismatic personality and a flair for showmanship that captivated fans and transcended the game of football. His signature high-stepping, celebrations, and colorful interviews made him a beloved figure and brought a new level of excitement to the cornerback position.
Throughout his career, Sanders earned numerous accolades, including eight Pro Bowl selections, six First-Team All-Pro nods, and two NFL Defensive Player of the Year awards. He played a pivotal role in the 49ers' Super Bowl victory in 1994, solidifying his status as a key contributor on a championship team.
Deion Sanders' impact on the game extended far beyond his individual accomplishments. His dominance as a cornerback revolutionized the position and set a new standard for future generations. Sanders' combination of exceptional athleticism, playmaking ability, and magnetic personality made him a cultural icon and cemented his legacy as the best cornerback to ever play in the NFL.
Top 10 Cornerbacks 2023 NFL
The cornerback position in the NFL continues to evolve, with new talents emerging each year to solidify their place among the league's best. It's time to assess the top 10 cornerbacks who have established themselves as the premier defenders at their position. These exceptional athletes possess a unique blend of speed, coverage skills, and football IQ, allowing them to lock down opposing receivers and make game-changing plays. In this article, we will explore the top 10 cornerbacks in the NFL for the year 2023, highlighting their exceptional abilities and the impact they have on their respective teams. From shutdown coverage to impactful interceptions, these cornerbacks are the epitome of excellence at their position and continue to elevate the level of play in the league.
1
Devon Witherspoon
Illinois
2
Christian Gonzalez
Oregon
3
Joey Porter Jr
Penn State
4
Deonte Banks
Maryland
5
Cam Smith
South Carolina
6
DJ Turner
Michigan
7
Clark Phillips III
Utah
8
Tre'Vius Hodges-Tomlinson
TCU
9
Emmanuel Forbes
Mississippi State
10
Kelee Ringo
Georgia
S. No
Best Cornerbacks in NFL
Team
Best Cornerbacks in NFL History - FAQs
Ty Law's exceptional coverage skills and physicality set him apart from his peers. His ability to read quarterbacks and make timely interceptions, along with his knack for shutting down top receivers, made him a force to be reckoned with on the field.
Law played a crucial role in the Patriots' three Super Bowl victories in 2001, 2003, and 2004. His interception return for a touchdown in Super Bowl XXXVI against the St. Louis Rams was a defining moment in the game, helping the Patriots secure their first championship.
Aeneas Williams was known for his versatility, transitioning from safety to cornerback early in his career. His exceptional coverage skills, ability to blanket opposing receivers, and football intelligence made him a standout player. He consistently showcased his skills, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections and All-Pro honors.
Darrell Green was known as the "Fastest Man in the NFL" during his prime. His remarkable speed and agility allowed him to keep up with even the swiftest receivers, making him a feared cornerback on the field. Green's longevity and consistency were remarkable, as he remained a key contributor well into his 40s.
Charles Woodson's exceptional coverage skills, intelligence, and physicality made him a formidable force on the field. He showcased remarkable instincts, excelling in both man-to-man and zone coverage. Woodson's playmaking ability, versatility, and leadership earned him the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award in 2009.