NFL Top 10 Best Cornerbacks of All-Time
When it comes to the NFL’s best Cornerbacks of all-time, 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.
NFL Top 10 Best Cornerbacks of All-Time – Honorable Mention Ty Law
Honorable Mention – Ty Law
Ty Law’s career as a cornerback is defined by his exceptional coverage skills, playmaking ability, and clutch performances on the biggest stage. Known for his lockdown coverage and ability to create turnovers, Law left an indelible mark on the game and solidified his place among the elite cornerbacks in NFL history.
Law’s ability to shut down opposing receivers was remarkable. With his physicality, technique, and football IQ, he consistently disrupted routes and made it challenging for quarterbacks to find success in his area. Law’s press coverage skills were particularly impressive, as he excelled at jamming receivers at the line of scrimmage, throwing off timing and disrupting offensive game plans.
What truly set Law apart was his penchant for making big plays in critical moments. He had an uncanny ability to step up and deliver game-changing interceptions, particularly in the postseason. Law’s six interceptions during the 2003 playoffs, including a pick-six in Super Bowl XXXVIII, played a vital role in the New England Patriots’ championship run. His ability to make timely, momentum-shifting plays earned him a reputation as a playoff performer extraordinaire.
It was extremely difficult to leave Ty Law off this list, but that’s not a knock on his game. I was forced to at least have him as an honorable mention.
NFL Top 10 Best Cornerbacks of All-Time – #10 Mike Haynes
#10 – Mike Haynes
Mike Haynes stands tall among the pantheon of legendary cornerbacks and is a pioneer for the position. Known for his shut-down coverage and game-changing ability, Haynes truly set the bar for what it takes to be the best cornerback in the NFL.
Haynes possessed an innate ability to lock down some of the league’s most dangerous wide receivers. His combination of speed, agility, and instinct allowed him to stick to his opponents like glue, making it incredibly difficult for them to gain separation. Quarterbacks feared throwing in his direction, as Haynes had a knack for turning potential receptions into interceptions with his exceptional ball skills.
Beyond his coverage skills, Haynes showcased an incredible football IQ that allowed him to anticipate routes and disrupt passing plays. His ability to read quarterbacks and make timely breaks on the ball often led to crucial interceptions and game-changing turnovers. Haynes was not just a defender but a playmaker, capable of swinging the momentum in his team’s favor with a single well-timed interception.
In terms of career accomplishments, Haynes’s resume speaks for itself. He earned nine Pro Bowl selections and was recognized as a First-team All-Pro twice. His impact extended beyond his individual accolades, as he played a vital role in leading his teams to success. Haynes’s contributions were instrumental in the Patriots’ first playoff appearance in 1976, and his exceptional play continued when he joined the Los Angeles Raiders, where he played a crucial part in their Super Bowl victory in XVIII.
NFL Top 10 Best Cornerbacks of All-Time – #9 Mel Blount
#9 – Mel Blount
Mel Blount’s impact on the game of football extends far beyond his remarkable career statistics. As one of the most physical cornerbacks to have ever played the game, Blount redefined the position.
Blount’s physicality was unmatched, as he used his imposing size and strength to overpower opposing receivers. His aggressive press coverage disrupted timing between quarterbacks and receivers, often throwing off entire offensive game plans. Blount’s physicality was not limited to the line of scrimmage; he maintained his dominant presence throughout routes, using his physicality to disrupt receivers’ routes and separate them from the ball.
Blount’s impact was not solely limited to his coverage skills. He possessed exceptional ball skills and had a knack for making timely interceptions. His ability to read quarterbacks’ eyes and anticipate throws often resulted in game-changing turnovers, shifting momentum in favor of his team. Blount’s presence on the field demanded respect, as quarterbacks were forced to think twice before challenging him.
Beyond the field, Blount’s impact can be seen in the rule changes that followed his dominant play. The NFL implemented the “Mel Blount Rule,” which restricted defensive contact with receivers beyond five yards downfield. This change was a testament to Blount’s physicality and the league’s acknowledgment of his ability to overpower and disrupt receivers.
He was a key member of the Pittsburgh Steelers’ renowned “Steel Curtain” defense, which dominated the league throughout the 1970s. Blount’s physical play was instrumental in the Steelers’ four Super Bowl victories during that era. He earned five Pro Bowl selections and was recognized as a First-team All-Pro twice.
NFL Top 10 Best Cornerbacks of All-Time – #8 Darrell Green
#8 – Darrell Green
They called him the “Ageless Wonder”. Darrell Green’s career as a cornerback is a testament to his exceptional speed, longevity, and unwavering impact on the game of football.
Green’s speed was unmatched, allowing him to keep pace with the fastest receivers in the league. His remarkable quickness and agility enabled him to cover large areas of the field, shutting down opposing receivers with ease. Quarterbacks were often hesitant to challenge him, knowing that his exceptional recovery speed would allow him to make up ground and break up plays even when seemingly beaten. That speed earned him a title as one of the top 10 fastest players in NFL history.
What sets Green apart is his longevity and ability to maintain his elite level of play well into his 40s. Despite entering the league as a speedster, Green adapted his game as he aged, relying on his experience and football intelligence to continue making an impact. His work ethic and dedication to his craft allowed him to compete at a high level for an astonishing 20 seasons.
Darrell Green was a key member of the Washington Football Team for his entire career, winning two Super Bowls, earning four first team all-pro selections. Green’s remarkable durability allowed him to accumulate numerous interceptions and defensive touchdowns throughout his career.
NFL Top 10 Best Cornerbacks of All-Time – #7 Willie Brown
#7 – Willie Brown
Willie Brown’s career as a cornerback exemplifies excellence, impact, and a relentless pursuit of greatness. He had a tremendous ability to make game-changing plays and interceptions including in crucial moments. He possessed a remarkable knack for reading quarterbacks and anticipating their throws. His exceptional instincts and athleticism allowed him to make timely breaks on the ball, leading to crucial turnovers and momentum-shifting plays.
Beyond his ballhawking skills, Brown’s impact extended to his exceptional coverage ability. He was a master at shadowing receivers, using his physicality and technique to disrupt routes and limit their effectiveness. His understanding of the game and football IQ allowed him to excel in both man-to-man and zone coverages, earning the respect of both teammates and opponents.
In terms of career accomplishments, Brown’s resume speaks volumes. He was a key member of the Oakland Raiders’ dominant defense during the 1970s, helping lead the team to multiple playoff appearances and a Super Bowl victory in Super Bowl XI. Brown earned four Pro Bowl selections and was recognized as a First-team All-Pro twice. His impact on the Raiders’ success and their iconic “Soul Patrol” secondary was immeasurable.
Beyond his on-field achievements, Brown’s lasting legacy can be seen in the enduring impact he had on the game. He paved the way for future generations of cornerbacks with his exceptional skills, professionalism, and dedication. Brown’s influence extended beyond his playing career, as he continued to contribute to the sport as a coach and mentor to younger players.
NFL Top 10 Best Cornerbacks of All-Time – #6 Champ Bailey
#6 – Champ Bailey
Champ Bailey’s career as a cornerback epitomizes excellence, dominance, and a relentless pursuit of perfection. Known for his shutdown coverage, exceptional athleticism, and versatility, Bailey stands among the elite cornerbacks in NFL history.
Bailey’s possessed an extraordinary combination of speed, agility, and physicality, allowing him to excel in man-to-man coverage. His exceptional footwork and technique made it incredibly difficult for receivers to gain separation, while his anticipation and ball skills often resulted in interceptions and pass breakups. Quarterbacks learned the hard way that throwing in Bailey’s direction was a risky proposition.
What set Bailey apart was his versatility and ability to cover any receiver, regardless of size or style. Whether matched up against speedsters, possession receivers, or physical targets, Bailey consistently rose to the challenge and neutralized his opponents. His adaptability allowed him to excel in various defensive schemes, cementing his status as one of the most complete cornerbacks of his era.
Beyond his coverage skills, Bailey’s impact extended to his overall playmaking ability. He possessed exceptional instincts and an innate understanding of the game, often sniffing out screens, jumping routes, and making impact tackles. Bailey’s presence on the field elevated the entire defense, as his lockdown coverage allowed teammates to focus on their assignments with added confidence.
His twelve Pro Bowl selections and three First-team All-Pro selections are nothing short of special. Champ Bailey was the heart and soul of the Denver Broncos defense and team for that matter. He played a crucial role in leading the Denver Broncos to multiple playoff appearances and a Super Bowl berth. Bailey’s excellence and impact were recognized with his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2019.
NFL Top 10 Best Cornerbacks of All-Time – #5 Darrelle Revis
#5 – Darrelle Revis
Darrelle Revis is widely regarded as the most dominant shut-down cornerback in the modern era. His exceptional coverage skills, football IQ, and versatility have made him a game-changer on the field, earning him a rightful place among the all-time greats.
Revis’s ability to shut down even the most elite wide receivers is unparalleled. Known for his exceptional man-to-man coverage, Revis often left opposing receivers frustrated and ineffective. His physicality at the line of scrimmage, combined with his fluid hips, agility, and anticipation, allowed him to stick to his assignments like glue. Revis Island, as it came to be known, was a place where wide receivers would find themselves isolated, unable to escape Revis’s stifling coverage.
What truly sets Revis apart is his ability to completely neutralize an opponent’s top receiving threat. He possesses a unique blend of athleticism, technique, and instincts that enable him to take away an entire side of the field. Quarterbacks would think twice before targeting receivers covered by Revis, as his presence alone forced them to look elsewhere, disrupting offensive game plans and allowing the rest of the defense to excel.
Revis’s impact extended beyond his coverage skills. He possessed exceptional ball skills, often leading to crucial interceptions that shifted momentum in favor of his team. His intelligence and ability to read quarterbacks allowed him to make timely breaks on the ball, leading to game-changing turnovers. Revis’s overall impact on the game went far beyond individual statistics, as his shutdown coverage altered the way opposing teams approached their passing attack. You’re better off just avoiding him.
Throughout his career, Revis earned numerous accolades, including seven Pro Bowl selections and four first-team All-Pro honors. He played a pivotal role in the success of the New York Jets and the New England Patriots, helping lead both teams to the Super Bowl. Revis’s excellence and impact were recognized with the prestigious Defensive Player of the Year award in 2009.
The reason he isn’t higher on this list is because he lacked the longevity and consistency of the players included above. That being said, in his prime, there is only one cornerback I’d rather have than Darrelle Revis.
NFL Top 10 Best Cornerbacks of All-Time – #4 Rod Woodson
#4 – Rod Woodson
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.
Woodson’s versatility set him apart from his peers. He seamlessly transitioned between cornerback and safety, showcasing his ability to excel at both positions. His coverage skills were outstanding, as he possessed the speed, agility, and technique to match up against any receiver. Whether he was shadowing speedsters down the field or battling physical receivers in the trenches, Woodson consistently rose to the occasion and made it difficult for opposing offenses to find success.
Woodson’s impact extended far beyond his coverage ability. He was a true ballhawk, with a knack for making game-changing interceptions, but it was his tackling ability that really separates him into the elite category. 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.
What truly sets Woodson apart is his durability and longevity. Throughout his career, he proved to be a model of consistency, rarely missing games due to injury. His work ethic, discipline, and commitment to his craft allowed him to perform at a high level well into his 30s, showcasing his dedication to the game and his relentless pursuit of greatness.
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.
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.
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.
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.
In Conlusion
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.
