Lockdown Potential: Defensive Backs to Know in 2027

The 2027 defensive back class continues to show impressive depth, versatility, and competitiveness across the board. From long press corners to explosive slot defenders, these prospects already display traits that translate to the next level. Each athlete on this list brings a unique skill set, whether it's ball skills, physicality, or football IQ. As the game continues to evolve toward speed and space, these defensive backs have shown they can thrive in man coverage, zone concepts, and run support. Prep Redzone takes a closer look at ten rising defensive backs who are setting the standard early in the 2027 cycle.    Savon Barnes brings ideal size and fluid movement to the defensive back position. At 6'0, he uses his length effectively to disrupt routes at the line of scrimmage. Barnes shows patience in press coverage and doesn't panic when receivers attempt to stack him vertically. His hips are loose, allowing him to transition smoothly when breaking on the football. He demonstrates strong awareness in zone coverage, often positioning himself to limit throwing windows. Barnes is a reliable open-field tackler who doesn't shy away from contact. His ball tracking ability continues to improve, giving him turnover potential. With continued development, Barnes projects as a high-upside outside corner.     [player_tooltip player_id='1679347' first='Devon' last='Jones'] is a well-rounded defensive back with a physical edge to his game. He does a great job staying square in coverage and maintaining leverage against skilled receivers. Jones shows confidence pressing at the line and rerouting receivers off their stems. His closing speed stands out when breaking on short and intermediate routes. Jones plays with good vision in zone coverage and anticipates throws effectively. He's a willing run supporter who attacks ball carriers with authority. His competitiveness shows up on contested catches downfield. Jones' combination of size, toughness, and instincts makes him a reliable secondary piece.     Simeon Watson III thrives with quickness and competitive energy. Despite being 5'10, he plays bigger than his listed size due to strong positioning and timing. Watson is a quick-twitch athlete who mirrors receivers well in man coverage. His short-area burst allows him to close space rapidly on underneath routes. Watson shows strong awareness when playing in the slot, diagnosing concepts quickly. He's aggressive attacking screens and perimeter runs. His motor stays hot throughout the game, consistently around the football. Watson projects as a dynamic slot defender with upside in multiple schemes.     Samuel Minnifield offers excellent length and instincts at the corner position. At 6'1, he uses his wingspan to disrupt passing lanes effectively. Minnifield is comfortable playing both press and off-man coverage. He stays disciplined with his footwork and doesn't overcommit early in routes. His ball skills stand out, especially when locating the football downfield. Minnifield shows good awareness in zone, understanding route combinations. He's a sound tackler who wraps up and limits yards after contact. With continued physical development, Minnifield has clear outside corner potential.     Tay Prater brings a prototypical frame for a modern defensive back. Standing at 6'2, he matches up well against bigger receivers. Prater shows strong patience in press coverage and uses his length to contest throws. His stride length allows him to cover ground efficiently downfield. He plays with good eye discipline and doesn't lose receivers in transition. Prater is a physical presence in run support, setting the edge when needed. His confidence continues to grow with reps and experience. Prater projects as a high-ceiling boundary corner at the next level.     Kamari Duncan plays with urgency, speed, and toughness. Though listed at 5'9, he consistently competes against bigger opponents. Duncan's change of direction is sharp, allowing him to stay connected in coverage. He excels in off-man and zone concepts where his vision shines. Duncan is quick to trigger downhill against screens and outside runs. His tackling technique is solid, and he rarely misses in space. Duncan plays with a chip on his shoulder that fuels his intensity. He profiles as a strong slot defender or versatile secondary piece.     Keshawn Thomas is a technically sound defensive back with strong football IQ. He understands route concepts and positions himself effectively pre-snap. Thomas shows smooth footwork in coverage and stays balanced through transitions. His anticipation allows him to break early on throws. He's reliable in zone coverage, consistently being in the right spot. Thomas competes in run support and takes proper angles to the football. His consistency stands out on film snap after snap. Thomas projects as a dependable defensive back who can be trusted in multiple roles.     Hakeem Winston checks many boxes scouts look for at the defensive back position. At 6'2, he brings excellent length and physical traits to the secondary. Winston shows confidence pressing receivers and disrupting timing early. His recovery speed allows him to stay in phase downfield. He plays with strong awareness when the ball is in the air. Winston uses his frame well to win at the catch point. He's a physical tackler who brings pop on contact. Winston projects as a high-level outside corner with college-ready traits.     Kelton Agee plays the game with energy and confidence. He's a quick-footed defender who stays connected through routes. Agee shows good instincts when reading quarterback drops and eyes. His short-area burst allows him to close windows quickly. He's aggressive attacking the football in the air. Agee doesn't shy away from contact and supports the run effectively. His swagger shows up in competitive moments. Agee projects as a versatile defensive back who brings intensity to the secondary.     [player_tooltip player_id='1650318' first='Jayden' last='Garrett'] is a fearless competitor in the defensive backfield. At 5'9, he relies on speed, positioning, and toughness. Garrett mirrors well in man coverage and stays disciplined with his technique. His closing speed stands out when driving on underneath routes. He's active in run support and attacks ball carriers aggressively. Garrett shows strong awareness in zone concepts. His effort level remains consistent throughout games. Garrett projects as a dependable slot corner with playmaking upside.

The 2027 defensive back class continues to show impressive depth, versatility, and competitiveness across the board. From long press corners to explosive slot defenders, these prospects already display traits that translate to the next level. Each athlete on this list brings a unique skill set, whether it's ball skills, physicality, or football IQ. As the game continues to evolve toward speed and space, these defensive backs have shown they can thrive in man coverage, zone concepts, and run support. Prep Redzone takes a closer look at ten rising defensive backs who are setting the standard early in the 2027 cycle.