New 2028 DB's Outside of the Top 50 Looking to Make a Splash

As we look at the new rankings update, a new wave of defensive backs is ready to make their presence felt. This group of emerging prospects brings production, versatility and playmaking instincts to the secondary. Each has shown flashes and will now look to steps into the spotlight with an opportunity to elevate his stock. With strong offseasons and continued development, these ball hawks have the tools to generate buzz on the recruiting trail and climb the board in the months ahead.    Collins enters the rankings after a productive campaign that showcased his instincts and nose for the football. He totaled 28 tackles, one tackle for loss and three interceptions, consistently positioning himself to impact games from the secondary. Collins displays smooth hips and the ability to turn and run in coverage, allowing him to stay in phase with receivers and break on the ball with confidence. His understanding of route concepts and ability to read his keys stand out on film. Carrying this season's momentum into the offseason will be critical as he works to sharpen his technique and continue turning heads on the recruiting landscape.     Rhoades is a defensive back with clear upside and playmaking ability. He recorded 26 total tackles and three interceptions, returning two of those picks for touchdowns and flipping momentum in key moments. Rhoades flashes strong ball hawking skills and natural instincts, showing he can capitalize on opportunities when the ball comes his way. The next step in his development will be stringing together consistent performances against top competition. As he refines his technique and gains exposure through team camps, his combination of athleticism and production could quickly translate into increased recruiting attention and a steady rise in the rankings.     Howell has built a reputation as a lockdown presence on the small school circuit. He finished the season with 31 total tackles, two tackles for loss and three interceptions, demonstrating both physicality and range from the corner position. Howell competes with confidence and shows the ability to mirror receivers while remaining disciplined in his assignments. His production suggests he can handle expanded responsibilities at the next level. Continued development, along with strong performances against elevated competition on the camp circuit, would strengthen his case as a legitimate top 50 candidate and further validate the talent evident on film.     Herman may possess the highest long term ceiling among this group. While his stat line of 19 tackles and one tackle for loss does not immediately jump off the page, his performance at the Prep Redzone Colorado showcase turned heads. Herman has a quick burst, displays good hips being able to open up and runs stride for stride with receivers downfield. He breaks with speed on the football and can go up and compete at the high point. With added strength and a full offseason of development, Herman is positioned to take a significant step forward. A breakout junior campaign could quickly transform potential into proven production.     Obert brings versatility and relentless energy to the secondary. What he lacks in size standing at 5'7, he compensates with quickness, instincts and a motor that rarely slows down. Obert piled up 57 total tackles and two tackles for loss, consistently flying to the football and making plays in space. His ability to defend slot receivers and match up with running backs out of the backfield adds value in multiple defensive schemes. Obert's instincts allow him to anticipate routes and close quickly on ball carriers. A strong offseason focused on strength and exposure opportunities could help him draw increased attention from college programs.

As we look at the new rankings update, a new wave of defensive backs is ready to make their presence felt. This group of emerging prospects brings production, versatility and playmaking instincts to the secondary. Each has shown flashes and will now look to steps into the spotlight with an opportunity to elevate his stock. With strong offseasons and continued development, these ball hawks have the tools to generate buzz on the recruiting trail and climb the board in the months ahead.