2026 Under the Radar: Cornerbacks

Cornerbacks are some of the most athletic and competitive players on the field, often left on an island with the responsibility of shutting down an opponent's top receiver. In today's pass-heavy game, having reliable corners is crucial—and the Class of 2026 has several who are quietly developing into lockdown defenders. In this final installment of our "Under the Radar" series for the 2026 class, we highlight the cornerbacks who may not be household names yet but have the footwork, instincts, and confidence to become major contributors next season. Keep an eye on these rising seniors as they prepare to take on bigger roles and attract well-deserved recruiting attention.    Gasperson started at corner for the state title runner-ups in Lake Oswego. That is all that should needed to be said for him to get a look. He is also a plus athlete who can punish opposing special teams with his return ability. Where Gasperon excels is in zone coverage, where he can keep the play in front of him and make a play on the ball. He I am excited to watch him next season as he should only improve.     Gilhuber is a very impressive player, as there are not many weaknesses in his game. He has fantastic athleticism, a nice size for the position, can make plays on the ball with ease, has loose hips, and is very sticky in coverage. He is an all-around cornerback and should get some love sooner rather than later in his recruiting. I am a big fan of Gilhuber.     Franco is one of the most athletic corners in Oregon, and the film proves that. His coverage ability is solid, and what is impressive is his ball skills, as he came away with four interceptions on the season. Another surprise for me was his run support ability; he is not afraid to shed a receiver's weak block and make a play on the back. That was a pleasant surprise for me. There are parts of his game I am hoping to see him refine this offseason, and hopefully, we can see Franco blow up next season.     Wells is a big and physical corner from 5A Hood River Valley. He really does have plus size for the position at 6'2" and 180 pounds, and he plays like it too. Where he excels is making plays against the run and dropping back in zone. He is not the most fluid athlete but is a great counter to teams who have a big X receiver that they love to throw 50/50 balls to. Wells could really break out next year if he spends time this offseason perfecting his craft.     Lawson may be a surprise for some on this list because of his size, but I was pleasantly surprised when turning on his film. He may be the single player I have written about who embodies "Under the radar" the most, as too many people would look at his size and not give him the time of day. Lawson showcases solid technique and excellent ball skills, and he also enjoys coming downhill and laying a hit stick on a ball carrier. I cannot wait to see him play next season, and hopefully, he will be on more people's radar.

Cornerbacks are some of the most athletic and competitive players on the field, often left on an island with the responsibility of shutting down an opponent's top receiver. In today's pass-heavy game, having reliable corners is crucial—and the Class of 2026 has several who are quietly developing into lockdown defenders. In this final installment of our "Under the Radar" series for the 2026 class, we highlight the cornerbacks who may not be household names yet but have the footwork, instincts, and confidence to become major contributors next season. Keep an eye on these rising seniors as they prepare to take on bigger roles and attract well-deserved recruiting attention.