NFL Top 10 Best Cornerbacks Ever in NFL History

When it comes to the best cornerbacks ever, few positions have the same level of skill, impact, and game-changing ability. These elite defensive players possess an uncanny knack for shutting down opposing wide receivers, disrupting passing plays, and making game-changing interceptions. The best of the best can even make an impact with their tackling ability. In this definitive list, we embark on a journey through time to uncover the exceptional talents of the greatest cornerbacks to have graced the gridiron. Join us as we delve into their shut-down coverage, highlight-reel interceptions, and remarkable career accomplishments.

Also, check out the best cornerback seasons since 1990 and the best cornerbacks ever tier list.

NFL Top 10 Best Cornerbacks of All-Time – Honorable Mention Ty Law

Honorable Mention – Ty Law

Ty Law’s name is one that commands respect when talking about the greatest cornerbacks in NFL history. His career is a testament to skill, tenacity, and a deep understanding of the game.

Law’s time with the New England Patriots was marked by incredible performances, but none more so than his pivotal role in the Patriots’ first Super Bowl win in 2002. His interception returned for a touchdown in Super Bowl XXXVI against the St. Louis Rams showcased his knack for capitalizing on big moments. It’s moments like these that underscore Law’s standing as one of the all-time greats.

With a total of 53 career interceptions, Law was a true ball hawk. He had an uncanny ability to anticipate plays, make adjustments mid-play, and position himself to disrupt passes. He was the quintessential shutdown corner, often drawing assignments against the opposing team’s best receiver and routinely delivering top-tier performances.

Not just a player of incredible physical talent, Law also possessed a high football IQ. His understanding of offensive formations and receiver patterns allowed him to excel in both man and zone coverage. He was a tactician on the field, making him a challenging adversary for any offense.

It was extremely difficult to leave Ty Law off this list, but that’s not a knock on his game. There are just too many legendary names to not have any snubs. Having him as an honorable mention was a must.

• 3× Super Bowl champion (XXXVI, XXXVIII, XXXIX)
• 2× First-team All-Pro (1998, 2003)
• 5× Pro Bowl (1998, 2001–2003, 2005)
• 2× NFL interceptions leader (1998, 2005)
• NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
• New England Patriots All-1990s Team
• New England Patriots All-2000s Team
• New England Patriots 50th Anniversary Team
• New England Patriots All-Dynasty Team
• New England Patriots Hall of Fame

• New England Patriots (1995–2004)
• New York Jets (2005)
• Kansas City Chiefs (2006–2007)
• New York Jets (2008)
• Denver Broncos (2009)

NFL Top 10 Best Cornerbacks of All-Time – #10 Mike Haynes

#10 – Mike Haynes

Kicking off this top 10 list, Mike Haynes is a standout name when one discusses the greatest cornerbacks in the history of the NFL. His unique blend of speed, agility, and exceptional technique makes him one of the most formidable players to have played at the cornerback position.

Haynes’ ability to cover receivers was unparalleled. His speed allowed him to keep pace with the fastest receivers, and his exceptional footwork and agility made it difficult for any quarterback to find an open man when Haynes was in coverage. His knack for shutting down top receivers was a testament to his talent and work ethic.

Haynes was instrumental during his tenure with both the New England Patriots and the Los Angeles Raiders. He was recognized as a nine-time Pro Bowler and was a key figure in the Raiders’ Super Bowl XVIII victory.

Moreover, Haynes was a leader, a player who brought professionalism and a winning mentality to the teams he played for. His work ethic, combined with his natural talent, made him a role model for other players and a respected figure among opponents.

In short, Mike Haynes was a true virtuoso of the cornerback position. His impact on the game was profound, influencing a new generation of cornerbacks who aspired to mirror his success. His legacy in the NFL is a testament to his exceptional skill, work ethic, and commitment to excellence.

• Super Bowl champion (XVIII)
• NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (1976)
• 2× First-team All-Pro (1984, 1985)
• 6× Second-team All-Pro (1976–1980, 1982)
• 9× Pro Bowl (1976–1980, 1982, 1984–1986)
• NFL 1980s All-Decade Team
• NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team
• NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (1976)
• New England Patriots All-1970s Team
• New England Patriots 35th Anniversary Team
• New England Patriots 50th Anniversary Team
• New England Patriots Hall of Fame
• New England Patriots No. 40 retired

• New England Patriots (1976–1982)
• Los Angeles Raiders (1983–1989)

NFL Top 10 Best Cornerbacks of All-Time – #9 Mel Blount

#9 – Mel Blount

Mel Blount is a name that resonates deeply when discussing the greatest cornerbacks in the history of the NFL. His sheer dominance on the field during his time with the Pittsburgh Steelers defined a new era of physical, intimidating defensive play.

Blount’s physicality was a key element of his game. At 6’3″, he towered over many receivers of his time, utilizing his size and strength to impose his will on the field. His aggressive bump-and-run coverage style became his trademark, often shutting down top receivers single-handedly.

This relentless style of play was so influential that it led to a significant rule change in the NFL, often referred to as the “Mel Blount Rule,” which limited contact between a defender and a receiver. The fact that the league had to adjust its rules to level the playing field speaks volumes about Blount’s dominance.

Blount was a cornerstone of the famed “Steel Curtain” defense that led the Steelers to four Super Bowl titles during the 1970s. His performance in these crucial games displayed his ability to rise to the occasion and contribute significantly to his team’s success.

With 57 career interceptions, Blount demonstrated remarkable ball skills and the ability to turn defense into offense quickly. His instinctive playmaking ability often swung the momentum of games in favor of the Steelers.

Mel Blount’s legacy in the NFL is one of true greatness and game-changing influence. His unique blend of physicality, skill, and game intelligence sets him apart as one of the all-time greats at the cornerback position. His impact on the game has left an indelible mark on the NFL and continues to influence the way defense is played today.

NFL Top 10 Best Cornerbacks of All-Time – #8 Darrell Green

#8 – Darrell Green

Discussing Darrell Green’s career is a journey into the heart of excellence in the NFL. When we talk about the greatest cornerbacks, it’s impossible not to include Green, a player who graced the gridiron with his talent, longevity, and remarkable consistency.

Green’s speed was a key factor in his success. One of the top 10 fastest players in NFL history, he had the ability to keep up with anyone who lined up across from him. This speed, coupled with his exceptional technique and football IQ, made him a force to be reckoned with on the field.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Green’s career was his longevity. They called him the “Ageless Wonder”. He spent an incredible 20 seasons with the Washington Redskins, a testament to his durability and dedication to the game. During this time, he garnered multiple Pro Bowl selections and was a two-time Super Bowl champion.

His ball-hawking skills were second to none, and he ended his career with a whopping 54 interceptions. Green had a knack for making plays when his team needed them the most, regularly turning games in his team’s favor with his ability to create turnovers.

Darrell Green’s legacy is undeniably significant in the NFL’s history. His blend of speed, skill, and smarts set him apart as one of the all-time greats at the cornerback position. A player who truly defined the term “shutdown corner,” Green’s influence on the game will be remembered and appreciated for generations to come.

• 2× Super Bowl champion (XXII, XXVI)
• NFL Man of the Year (1996)
• 4× First-team All-Pro (1986, 1987, 1990, 1991)
• 7× Pro Bowl (1984, 1986, 1987, 1990, 1991, 1996, 1997)
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (1983)
• NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
• NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
• 80 Greatest Redskins
• Washington Commanders Ring of Fame
• Bart Starr Award (1997)

• Most consecutive seasons with an interception: 19

• Washington Redskins (1983–2002)

NFL Top 10 Best Cornerbacks of All-Time – #7 Willie Brown

#7 – Willie Brown

At the 7th spot, let’s talk about Willie Brown. When we discuss the greatest cornerbacks to ever take the field, the conversation would be incomplete without mentioning Brown, who did not get enough love in the fan voting.

During his playing days, especially with the Oakland Raiders, Brown was more than just a player – he was a trendsetter. His game, a mix of exceptional talent, smart play, and unrivaled football IQ, set new standards for the cornerback position.

Brown was a menace to any wide receiver he marked, employing his physical, bump-and-run style of coverage. The frustration he caused quarterbacks was well evidenced by his remarkable tally of 39 interceptions during his tenure with the Raiders.

One cannot discuss Brown’s legacy without mentioning his unforgettable 75-yard interception return for a touchdown in Super Bowl XI. It was a play for the ages, cementing his status as a big-game player and etching his name in the NFL history books.

But Brown’s contributions were not confined to the field alone. His leadership skills were highly regarded, and he inspired his teammates to strive for excellence. His induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame is a fitting tribute to his significant impact on the game.

Willie Brown’s presence was felt every time he stepped on the field. His performance, skill, and dedication to the game made him a nightmare for quarterbacks, a figure of respect for coaches, and a fan favorite.

• 3× Super Bowl champion (XI, XV, XVIII)
• 2× First-team All-Pro (1971, 1973)
• 2× Second-team All-Pro (1970, 1972)
• 4× Pro Bowl (1970–1973)
• NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
• NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
• AFL champion (1967)
• AFL All-Time Team
• 3× First-team All-AFL (1964, 1968, 1969)
• 3× Second-team All-AFL (1965, 1966, 1967)
• 5× AFL All-Star (1964, 1965, 1967–1969)

• Most passes intercepted in a single game: 4 (tied)

• Denver Broncos (1963–1966)
• Oakland Raiders (1967–1978)

NFL Top 10 Best Cornerbacks of All-Time – #6 Champ Bailey

#6 – Champ Bailey

Champ Bailey, ah, what an appropriate name for a player who truly was a champion on the field. When you delve into the annals of NFL history and start discussing the most elite cornerbacks to have played the game, you simply cannot ignore Bailey’s contributions.

A whopping twelve-time Pro Bowler, Bailey had a career that was the stuff of legend. Throughout his tenure in the league, primarily with the Denver Broncos, he demonstrated an uncanny ability to change the tide of a game. With 52 career interceptions, Bailey consistently made quarterbacks think twice before throwing in his direction.

One of Bailey’s greatest assets was his raw athleticism. The man was as fast as lightning and could jump like a gazelle. Couple this with his outstanding anticipation and instincts, and it’s no wonder he was such a thorn in the side of opposing offenses.

But it wasn’t just his physical attributes that made Bailey such a formidable player. He was a student of the game, always studying film, always ready to adapt and evolve. His football IQ was off the charts, and it was clear to anyone who watched him that he was not only physically gifted but mentally sharp as well.

His leadership on and off the field was also noteworthy. Bailey was a beacon of reliability and professionalism. Younger players looked up to him, and his coaches trusted him – two things that underscore his impact on the game.

A man of talent, intellect, and tenacity, Champ Bailey embodied everything you could want in a cornerback. With a career highlighted by impressive stats, memorable plays, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Bailey rightfully earned his place among the greatest to have ever played the position. There’s no doubt about it, folks – when we’re talking about the best cornerbacks in NFL history, Champ Bailey’s name absolutely belongs in that conversation.

• 3× First-team All-Pro (2004–2006)
• 4× Second-team All-Pro (2000, 2003, 2007, 2012)
• 12× Pro Bowl (2000–2007, 2009–2012)
• NFL interceptions leader (2006)
• NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
• NFL All-Rookie Team (1999)
• Washington Commanders 90 Greatest
• Denver Broncos 50th Anniversary Team
• Denver Broncos Ring of Fame (2019)
• Bronko Nagurski Trophy (1998)
• Consensus All-American (1998)

• Most passes defended: 203

• Washington Redskins (1999–2003)
• Denver Broncos (2004–2013)

NFL Top 10 Best Cornerbacks of All-Time – Honorable Mention Richard Sherman

Honorable Mention – Richard Sherman

h, Richard Sherman. Now there’s a name that deserves recognition when we speak about the best cornerbacks ever. This guy – he’s a fighter, a scholar, and one of the most technically sound players to ever grace the gridiron.

While he just misses the top 10 list, he is without a doubt one of the best cornerbacks since 2000. His leadership and competitiveness are off the charts. Always one to step up to the challenge, Sherman would often guard the opponent’s number one receiver, demonstrating time and time again his skill and dedication to his craft.

And let’s not forget his incredible performance during the Seattle Seahawks’ Super Bowl win in the 2013 season. Sherman was a key figure in that ‘Legion of Boom’ defense that made life hell for quarterbacks and receivers alike. His pivotal role in that championship season is a clear testament to his value as a player.

Yes, Sherman may have had his fair share of controversies, but no one can deny the impact he has had on the field. He’s a passionate competitor, a masterful technician, and an incredibly smart player. He’s not just a player who dominated his position; he’s a player who redefined it.

• Super Bowl champion (XLVIII)
• 3× First-team All-Pro (2012–2014)
• 2× Second-team All-Pro (2015, 2019)
• 5× Pro Bowl (2013–2016, 2019)
• NFL interceptions leader (2013)
• NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2011)

• Seattle Seahawks (2011–2017)
• San Francisco 49ers (2018–2020)
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2021)

NFL Top 10 Best Cornerbacks of All-Time – #5 Darrelle Revis

#5 – Darrelle Revis

Landing at the 5th spot on the list of the greatest cornerbacks of all time seems fitting for a player of this caliber. Revis was an absolute nightmare for the NFL’s best wide receivers.

When we talk about cornerbacks, we talk about shutting down the opponent’s top wide receivers, and that’s precisely what Revis did week in and week out. It’s not by accident that he earned the nickname “Revis Island”. If you were a wide receiver matched up against him, you were essentially stranded on an island with little chance of escape.

Let’s not forget his exceptional skills at the line of scrimmage. His ability to jam receivers and disrupt routes was second to none. Coupled with his speed, agility, and pinpoint positioning, he was the epitome of a shutdown corner.

Revis was instrumental during his time with the New York Jets, earning multiple Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections, but his magnificence doesn’t stop there. His brief stint with the New England Patriots culminated in a Super Bowl ring, solidifying his status as a winner on the biggest stage of them all.

Statistics, accolades, and Super Bowl rings aside, it was Revis’s consistency that set him apart. For a significant part of his career, he was one of the best, if not the best, at his position, consistently matching up against and neutralizing the league’s top receivers.

His influence on the game and his position cannot be understated. He ushered in an era where shutdown corners began to receive the recognition and appreciation they deserve. Darrelle Revis, being ranked 5th among the all-time great cornerbacks, is a testament to his skill, influence, and his significant impact on the game.

• Super Bowl champion (XLIX)
• 4× First-team All-Pro (2009–2011, 2014)
• 7× Pro Bowl (2008–2011, 2013–2015)
• NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2007)
• New York Jets Ring of Honor

• New York Jets (2007–2012)
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2013)
• New England Patriots (2014)
• New York Jets (2015–2016)
• Kansas City Chiefs (2017)

NFL Top 10 Best Cornerbacks of All-Time – #4 Rod Woodson

#4 – Rod Woodson

Now at number 4, Rod Woodson is a name that absolutely must be included. Woodson’s career, marked by exceptional skill, versatility, and longevity, serves as a gold standard for defensive backs.

Rod Woodson showcased a rare blend of speed, agility, and ball skills that made him a threat on every snap. His ability to seamlessly transition from cornerback to safety later in his career demonstrated his profound understanding of the game and adaptability, attributes that are not common in many players.

With an impressive tally of 71 career interceptions, Woodson was the embodiment of a ball hawk. His uncanny knack for positioning himself to disrupt passes and create turnovers made him a game-changer and a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks.

In terms of career accomplishments, Woodson’s resume is filled with accolades. He earned eleven Pro Bowl selections and was recognized as a First-team All-Pro six different times. He also played a pivotal role in the success of the Pittsburgh Steelers, San Francisco 49ers, and Baltimore Ravens, including a Super Bowl victory with the Ravens in Super Bowl XXXV.

Beyond his interception record, Woodson was a feared return specialist. His speed and elusive running style made him a threat to take any interception or kick return to the end zone, adding another layer of potency to his teams’ defenses.

His exceptional instincts allowed for him to not only create turnovers intercepting the football, but also forcing fumbles. It’s an anomaly for someone with his ball-hawk skills to also record 20 forced fumbles and 13.5 sacks.

Rod Woodson’s illustrious career as a cornerback and defensive back exemplifies versatility, playmaking ability, and a straight up excellence. Known for his exceptional skills, football IQ, and durability, Woodson has etched his name among the NFL’s all-time best cornerbacks ever.

• Super Bowl champion (XXXV)
• NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1993)
• 6× First-team All-Pro (1989, 1990, 1992–1994, 2002)
• 3× Second-team All-Pro (1991, 1996, 2000)
• 11× Pro Bowl (1989–1994, 1996, 1999–2002)
• 2× NFL interceptions leader (1999, 2002)
• NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
• NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team
• NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
• Pittsburgh Steelers All-Time Team
• Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Honor
• Pittsburgh Pro Football Hall of Fame

• Most career interceptions returned for touchdown: 12

• Pittsburgh Steelers (1987–1996)
• San Francisco 49ers (1997)
• Baltimore Ravens (1998–2001)
• Oakland Raiders (2002–2003)

NFL Top 10 Best Cornerbacks of All-Time – #3 Dick Night Train Lane

#3 – Dick Lane

Dick “Night Train” Lane’s legacy as a cornerback is synonymous with innovation, physicality, and an unmatched ability to make game-changing plays. As one of the game’s early pioneers, Lane left an indelible mark on the position.

He established himself as a true ballhawk extraordinaire with 68 career interceptions in a run first era. Lane’s 14 interceptions in a single season, achieved in 1952, still stands as an NFL record. His ability to turn defense into offense by taking interceptions back for touchdowns made him a game-changer on the field.

Lane’s physicality and aggressive style of play set him apart from his peers. Known for his bone-jarring hits and punishing tackles, Lane struck fear into the hearts of opposing receivers. His physical presence alone was often enough to disrupt routes and force quarterbacks into making errant throws. Lane’s hard-hitting approach redefined the expectations of a cornerback, making him one of the most feared defensive players of his era and one of the hardest hitters in NFL history.

Lane’s impact extended beyond his individual achievements. His style of play and success as a ballhawk paved the way for future generations of aggressive and playmaking cornerbacks. There were multiple rules created to attempt to nerf Dick Lane’s physical tackling ability.

This man was truly the great pioneer for the position. The only thing keeping him from first on this list is the lack of competition he played during his time in the NFL.

• 7× First-team All-Pro (1956,1957, 1959–1963)
• 3× Second-team All-Pro (1954, 1958, 1963)
• 7× Pro Bowl (1954–1956, 1958, 1960–1962)
• 2× NFL interceptions leader (1952, 1954)
• NFL 1950s All-Decade Team
• NFL 50th Anniversary All-Time Team
• NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team
• NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
• Arizona Cardinals Ring of Honor
• Pride of the Lions
• Detroit Lions 75th Anniversary Team
• Detroit Lions All-Time Team
• Most interceptions in a season: 14 (1952)

• Los Angeles Rams (1952–1953)
• Chicago Cardinals (1954–1959)
• Detroit Lions (1960–1965)

NFL Top 10 Best Cornerbacks of All-Time – #2 Charles Woodson

#2 – Charles Woodson

Woodson’s versatility set him apart from his peers. He excelled as a shutdown cornerback, possessing the speed, agility, and technique to blanket receivers. In addition to his cornerback prowess, Woodson seamlessly transitioned to safety later in his career, showcasing his adaptability and willingness to contribute wherever his team needed him most.

Woodson’s ability to create turnovers and impact games was unmatched. He possessed exceptional ball skills and an uncanny ability to read quarterbacks, resulting in numerous interceptions and forced fumbles. His knack for timely turnovers often shifted momentum and energized his team. Woodson’s playmaking ability went beyond interceptions, as he also contributed with tackles for loss, sacks, and even defensive touchdowns.

What truly sets Woodson apart is his longevity and durability. Throughout his career, he showcased remarkable consistency and remained a dominant force well into his 30s. His work ethic, discipline, and dedication to his craft allowed him to maintain a high level of performance and continue making an impact on the field.

He earned nine Pro Bowl selections and was recognized as a First-team All-Pro four times. Though Woodson’s impact extended beyond individual honors, as he played a pivotal role in the success of both the Green Bay Packers and the Oakland Raiders. He won a Super Bowl with the Packers and was named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 2009.

• Super Bowl champion (XLV)
• NFL Defensive Player of the Year (2009)
• NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (1998)
• 4× First-team All-Pro (1999, 2001, 2009, 2011)
• 4× Second-team All-Pro (2000, 2008, 2010, 2015)
• 9× Pro Bowl (1998–2001, 2008–2011, 2015)
• 2× NFL interceptions leader (2009, 2011)
• NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (1998)
• Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame
• Art Rooney Award (2015)

• Most consecutive seasons with an interception returned for touchdown: 6 (2006–2011)

• Oakland Raiders (1998–2005)
• Green Bay Packers (2006–2012)
• Oakland Raiders (2013–2015)

NFL Top 10 Best Cornerbacks of All-Time – #1 Deion Sanders

#1 – Deion Sanders

Deion Sanders, commonly known as “Prime Time,” revolutionized the cornerback position as the greatest lockdown cornerback ever. There was no better man-to-man cornerback in coverage in the history of the NFL.

Sanders’ speed was simply unmatched as he is one of the top 10 fastest NFL players ever. His remarkable agility and quickness allowed him to stay step-for-step with the fastest wide receivers in the league. Sanders’ ability to effortlessly glide across the field and close gaps in an instant made him a nightmare for quarterbacks attempting to throw in his direction. Receivers struggled to create separation against his tight coverage, often finding themselves frustrated by his impeccable technique and anticipation.

He was not only a lockdown corner but also a prolific return specialist. His electrifying punt and kickoff returns showcased his exceptional vision, elusiveness, and breakaway speed. Sanders’ ability to change the game on special teams added another dynamic element to his already impressive skill set.

Sanders was not only a defensive force but also a showman. His flashy personality, distinctive style, and trademark celebrations made him one of the most recognizable figures on and off the field. Sanders brought a level of excitement and entertainment that few players could match, capturing the attention of fans worldwide and earning the nickname “Prime Time.”

In terms of career accomplishments, Sanders’ resume speaks for itself. He earned eight Pro Bowl selections and was recognized as a First-team All-Pro six different times. Sanders played a vital role in leading both the San Francisco 49ers and the Dallas Cowboys to Super Bowl victories, solidifying his status as a winner on the grandest stage.

While he was never the best tackler, in the words of Deion Sanders. “I don’t get paid to tackle”. He was so elite at coverage and playmaking ability that it made up for any deficiencies at stopping the run.

• 2× Super Bowl champion (XXIX, XXX)
• NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1994)
• 6× First-team All-Pro (1992–1994, 1996–1998)
• 2× Second-team All-Pro (1991, 1999)
• 8× Pro Bowl (1991–1994, 1996–1999)
• NFL kickoff return yards leader (1992)
• NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
• NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (1989)
• Atlanta Falcons Ring of Honor

• Atlanta Falcons (1989–1993)
• San Francisco 49ers (1994)
• Dallas Cowboys (1995–1999)
• Washington Redskins (2000)
• Baltimore Ravens (2004–2005)

In Conclusion

As we reflect upon the legacy of the best cornerbacks in NFL history, their contributions to the game are undeniable. From their awe-inspiring shut-down coverage that neutralized even the most prolific wide receivers to their ability to turn the tide with game-changing interceptions, these defensive stalwarts showcased unparalleled skill and determination. Through their artistry in redefining the art of defending the pass, these legendary cornerbacks have left an indelible mark as one of the best NFL cornerbacks ever.