2026 Rankings: Top Defensive Backs

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Prep Redzone has released the latest edition of the 2026 Rankings!&nbsp; After breaking down tape for months we have unveiled the new Class of 2026 Top 175!&nbsp; Here are the <strong>Top Defensive Backs</strong>!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='537245' first='Jayden' last='Marshall'] (Crete Monee)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Current Ranking: #38</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Marshall is a smooth and fluid corner at 5'11".&nbsp; The silky DB cuts well on the ball and consistently makes plays with the ball in the air.&nbsp; He covers ground well and uses his hands to defend the ball while not getting a penalty.&nbsp; Sound footwork and a typewriter back pedal.&nbsp; Tackles well in the box and is adept at chasing down opponents downfield that weren't his primary coverage with his speed.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='801706' first='Ahmad' last='Buchanan'] (Richards)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Current Ranking: #43</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Boundary and press corner at 5'11" 170 pounds.&nbsp; Can be physical at the line when in press. Plus athlete that makes plays on the ball downfield. Tips passes without getting penalties.&nbsp; Wraps up on tackles. Contributes on kick off coverage.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='401604' first='Devon' last='Armstrong'] (Mt. Carmel)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Current Ranking: #59</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Armstrong brings great size at 6'1" as a slot corner/nickel back.&nbsp; He cuts well on the ball for picks.&nbsp; Runs really well to the ball and is a fierce tackler.&nbsp; Forces fumbles and gets through blocks to get to the ball carrier.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='801993' first='Adidum' last='Aadum'] (Glenbrook South)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Current Ranking: #96</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Aadaum is a huge strong safety at 6'1" 200 pounds that has great size and strength.&nbsp; Cuts in front of defenders on the back end for interceptions.&nbsp; Also very good at coming up to make tackles in the box wrapping up low.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='279386' first='Tommy' last='Thies'] (Fenwick)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Current Ranking: #97</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Thies is a 6'0" corner with good strength.&nbsp; Makes plays on the ball downfield.&nbsp; Good speed and is a physical tackler.&nbsp; Very good blitzer off the edge.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->