The best cornerbacks in the NFL todayBy cover32 StaffJune 30, 2014 9:28 pm
6. Brandon BoykinBoykin is a great, young talentDuring his rookie season of 2012, Boykin was primarily used as a kick returner. But last year, the former fourth-round choice out of Georgia got a chance to play more on defense for the Eagles, an opportunity he took full advantage of throughout the year. By season’s end, Boykin had hauled in six interceptions (one of which he took back for a score) and forced a pair of fumbles, making him a central figure in Philly’s defense.
5. Alterraun VernerVerner snagged a big check from Tampa BayVerner has great timing, as he picked the perfect moment to have a breakout season. During the 2013 campaign, which was the final year of Verner’s original rookie contract, he blossomed in Tennessee, corralling five interceptions en route to his first Pro Bowl appearance. As a result, he became a hot commodity on the free-agent market, something he parlayed into a four-year, $25.5 million contract with the Buccaneers.
4. Joe HadenThe Browns know Haden’s valueThe Browns are so high on their young cornerback that they gave him a monstrous five-year, $68-million contract extension during the offseason. That may seem hefty for a guy has only earned one Pro Bowl nod (2013) and has had his fair share of off-the-field issues, but it’s a sign that Cleveland understands Haden’s tremendous value. Last season, he was among the game’s best corners, picking off four passes and defending another 20. He’s an elite cornerback.
3. Darrelle RevisRevis is more than just a contract complainerThe guy who was such a shutdown corner that his area of the field was dubbed “Revis Island” has tarnished his legacy a bit in recent years by constantly complaining about his contract status. That turmoil has seen him bounce to his third team in three years after inking a two-year deal worth $32 million to play in New England. But the five-time Pro Bowl selection and three-time All-NFL choice is still among the game’s best cover corners.
2. Patrick PetersonPeterson is Deion Sanders 2.0During his first three seasons in the league, Peterson has started all 48 games in which he’s played, earned three Pro Bowl trips and been named All-NFL twice. That’s not a bad start to what promises to be a great career, causing many observers to compare his skills to those of Hall of Fame cornerback Deion Sanders. And for good reason, as both players were great in coverage, while also bringing a playmaking ability to the position.
1. Richard ShermanSherman is the game’s top cornerbackIt’s not bragging if you can back in up, which is what Sherman has repeatedly done during his three seasons in the NFL. Yes, he likes to tell everyone that he’s the best cornerback in the league, but he has the numbers – including eight picks in each of the past two seasons – to support his claim. Plus, he’s a team leader on a franchise that just won the Super Bowl. There’s very little dispute that Sherman’s atop this list.link