Best Cornerbacks in College Football (Jim Thorpe Award Watch List 2025)

The following post features the best cornerbacks in college football (Jim Thorpe Award Watch List 2025).

Some college football teams have an NFL-level CB capable of shutting down the other team’s best WR. These are the CBs you need to know about when betting on college football.

Read: Best Kickers in College Football

Related: Best Quarterbacks in College Football

The Jim Thorpe Award Watch List features the top cornerbacks in the nation heading into the 2025 college football season.

So, who are the best CBs in 2025? Here’s what you need to know.

Overview

Texas’ Jahdae Barron won the 2024 Jim Thorpe Award after recording 5 interceptions, 11 pass deflections, 67 tackles, 1 sack, and 1 forced fumble. He was selected over two other finalists: Caleb Downs of Ohio State and Malaki Starks of Georgia.

How the Award Works

Throughout the season, the Jim Thorpe Award Committee evaluates the performance of defensive backs on the preseason watchlist. At mid-season, the committee narrows the list down to 10 semifinalists. From these semifinalists, the top three finalists are chosen. The winner is then selected from these three finalists by a panel of college football coaches, media members, and former Jim Thorpe Award recipients.

Click here for the official Jim Thorpe Award Watch List.

Jim Thorpe Award Watch List (2025)

In alphabetical order by last name, here is the 2025 Jim Thorpe Award Watch List:

Jim Thorpe Award Winners (2000 – Present)

Here are the winners from years past – notice lots of NFL names on this list.

Conclusion

In conclusion, keeping tabs on the top cornerbacks is helpful when betting on college football. Keeping these CBs (and their teams) in mind will help you find winning bets.