Led by Travis Hunter, the phenom who can play both cornerback and wide receiver, these are the players who could be selected as defensive backs in the first round of the 2025 NFL draft. There is a lot of high-end skill here, and they could all become impact players in the NFL right away. Most of these guys crack a lineup on opening day.

In today’s pass-heavy football era, defensive backs have never been more critical. From lockdown cornerbacks who erase top wide receivers to ball-hawking safeties patrolling deep zones, defensive backs are vital to any championship-caliber team.

After taking two offensive players in a row, the San Francisco 49ers jumped back to the defensive side of the ball with their second pick in the fifth round. At No. 160 overall they added help in the secondary with Kansas State safety Marques Sigle.