1A/2A DBs To Know

We're in the middle of a series highlighting the top players at smaller public schools around the state. Even with the recent move to eight NCHSAA classifications, there's a ton of future college talent at the 1A and 2A levels. Here, we're breaking down five defensive backs at the 1A and 2A levels that you should know in 2026.   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Five 1A/2A Defensive Backs to Know in 2026</h2>   Editor's Note: Check out our other 1A/2A pieces: <a href="https://prepredzone.com/2026/06/1a-2a-quarterbacks-to-know/">QBs</a> <a href="https://prepredzone.com/2026/06/1a-2a-rbs-to-know-cameron-clem-leads-strong-class/">RBs</a> <a href="https://prepredzone.com/2026/06/1a-2a-wide-receivers-to-know/">WRs </a><a href="https://prepredzone.com/2026/06/small-school-offensive-linemen-to-know/">Small-School OL</a> <a href="https://prepredzone.com/2026/06/1a-2a-interior-defensive-linemen-to-know/">IDLs</a> <a href="https://prepredzone.com/2026/06/1a-2a-edge-rushers-to-know-2/">Edge Rushers</a> <a href="https://prepredzone.com/2026/06/1a-2a-linebackers-to-know/">Linebackers</a>   [player_tooltip player_id='1815500' first='Jaden' last='Lewis'] | East Bladen   Lewis established himself last year as one of the top two-way players in the 2A class, and he's the only guy (so far) to <a href="https://prepredzone.com/2026/06/1a-2a-rbs-to-know-cameron-clem-leads-strong-class/">make this series on both offense</a> and defense. As a defensive back, Lewis racked up 49 tackles and led the team with four interceptions. He also recovered three fumbles and scored as a kick returner, highlighting his all-around talent and potential.   [player_tooltip player_id='2158953' first='Tyquan' last='Whitaker'] | Wilson Prep   While Whitaker plays both ways, he's at his best in the secondary. A two-year starter at corner, he has eight career interceptions, including six as a junior. He was a key defensive piece for Wilson Prep's 1A state title team. On a unit that loses a ton of talent, he's arguably the most important defensive player as Wilson Prep attempts to repeat as champions.   [player_tooltip player_id='1721126' first='Aayden' last='Williams'] | Murphy   Williams' length at corner is rare for a guy at the 2A level, as are his ball skills. He's not the biggest guy, but he has the frame to add weight, which he'll do in the coming years as he's a true college prospect. Murphy's defense was suffocating last year, and Williams is a lockdown corner. He's not afraid to crash down and play the run, either.   [player_tooltip player_id='1721132' first='Nicholas' last='Morrow'] | North Rowan   A multi-sport athlete, Morrow is one of the top safeties in the 2A classification. He has track speed, length, and ball skills, making him an excellent rangy safety. Last season, he picked off two passes and finished with eight pass deflections and three fumble recoveries. With Morrow patrolling the back end of the secondary, North Rowan's front seven is freed up to take risks. He unlocks a lot of schematic looks for the Cavaliers.   [player_tooltip player_id='1752155' first='Antonio' last='Felton'] | KIPP Pride   While Felton's interception numbers dropped last season, we thought he made noticeable improvement in terms of his speed and feel for the game. He caught seven touchdown passes on offense and still made 31 tackles. It's certainly possible he continues to see more snaps on the offensive side of the ball, but we ultimately think he ends up at safety at the next level. He has the size and length to be a true college prospect.   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Other 1A/2A DBs To Know</h2>   [player_tooltip player_id='2135594' first='Xavier' last='Savage'] | West Columbus   [player_tooltip player_id='2160225' first='Chantler' last='Arroyo'] | Winston-Salem Prep   [player_tooltip player_id='2176519' first='Nana' last='Takyi-Mensah'] | ALA-Johnston   Our preseason coverage is just getting started. Coaches, if you want your team featured in a team preview, <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeB9YBH_he_sOP-lhvI26XRh0P9vobS8PsVJy_5QCJ4jQLTvQ/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=118251332469799088451">fill out our survey</a>. Want to share Prep Redzone with a friend? Help them get 30% off their first billing cycle with promo code Helms30.

We're in the middle of a series highlighting the top players at smaller public schools around the state. Even with the recent move to eight NCHSAA classifications, there's a ton of future college talent at the 1A and 2A levels. Here, we're breaking down five defensive backs at the 1A and 2A levels that you should know in 2026.