Everyone seems to agree that the Cornerback (CB) position is the hardest to play in American football and the one that requires a greater and more complete range of skills than most football players. In the following article we are going to explain why.
As defensive players, the Cornerbacks' main task is to cover the rival team's Wide Receivers (WR) and prevent them from catching the ball.
But in addition, the Cornerbacks must also support against the running game, so they must be also physical enough to stop any of the powerful Running Backs (RB) that dominate the league. Their skill set must be truly complete.
WHAT IS A CORNERBACK?
Cornerbacks (CB) are part of the Defense, specifically the defensive backfield or secondary. Typically, there will be two Cornerbacks, with the rest of the members of the secondary unit being Safeties (S) or hybrids like the nickel linebacker.
Their main task is to cover Receivers, preventing catches by deflecting or intercepting (and scoring after intercepting, which will be called a “pick six”) the ball.
If the receiver catches the ball, the Cornerback has to be able to stop him as soon as possible, preventing him from gaining yards after the catch by tackling the receiver (maybe even provoking a fumble) or pushing him out of bounds.
But the Cornerback does not have only one job: They will also have to help on rushing plays, avoiding blocks and tackling the ball carriers, and blitzing over the line of scrimmage to pressure Quarterbacks.
Because of that, the Cornerback position requires a complete package of skills that includes speed, mobility, agility and strength, but also the ability to read the Quarterback and anticipate plays.
To do that, the Cornerback will have to be able to play in man-to-man coverage and in zone coverage. Each coverage will require a different approach and will focus on the passing or rushing game in a different way.
Key Responsibilities
COVER THE RECEIVERS
As we have explained, the cornerback's main role is to cover the Wide Receivers (WR), avoiding catches by deflecting or intercepting the ball.
Good footwork to stay on the receivers' routes, preventing their breaks from causing them to miss.
Speed to stay close to the receiver and prevent him from gaining separation.
Agility to jump to reach the ball.
Good hands, to deflect or intercept the ball.
Strength and good tackling technique to avoid yards after catch.
Quick eyes to read Quarterbacks and know where the ball and the receiver are.
Knowledge of the game to understand the field situation and the assigned coverage.
STOP RUSHING GAME
Cornerbacks also must help on the rushing game, especially on outside plays.
Intelligence to quickly read the rushing play (reading his receiver, the Offensive Line and the Quarterback).
Block shedding ability to Avoid blockers.
Good tackling technique, considering that the runners are more powerful and weigh more than them.
BLITZING
Many defensive packages include Cornerback blitzes. These are risky defensive calls, since they will leave a position uncovered, but they can be especially disruptive since the Offensive Linemen(OL) and the Quarterback will not be aware of the Cornerback blitzing.
Timing ability to disguise the blitz.
Speed to get to the ball before the line of scrimmage.
Don’t miss the tackle!
Skills Required
AGILITY: The Cornerback must be able to react quickly and to jump higher than the receiver. For a Cornerback, footwork is a skill on his own.
SPEED: To stay close to the receiver and avoid separation.
PLAY RECOGNITION: Read the Offense, anticipate the play.
GOOD HANDS: To fight for the ball, intercept, and score.
STRENGTH: To avoid blocks and tackle usually larger opponents.
Position on the field
Cornerbacks usually line up in front of receivers, so they will be on the sides of the field or corners (which is why they are called Cornerbacks).
Depending on the coverage, they may be closer or further away from their receiver and align slightly inside or outside of him.
Famous Cornerbacks
The very best Cornerbacks are typically called "lockdown corners". These elite defenders cover in such a way that the Quarterback will not attempt to throw the ball to the receiver they are covering.
The NFL's last lockdown Cornerback was Deion Sanders. Other Cornerbacks that deserve this consideration are Charles Woodson, Champ Bailey and Darrelle Revis.
Currently, we could consider that the best cornerbacks are “Sauce” Gardner (NY Jets), Patrick Surtain Jr (Denver Broncos), Jalen Ramsey (Miami Dolphins), Jaire Alexander (Green Bay Packers), and Darius Slay (Philadelphia Eagles).
IFL Top Performing Cornerbacks
The Italian Football League, while not as globally recognized as the NFL, showcases a remarkable depth of talent. This season, several cornerbacks have distinguished themselves as elite corners: intercepting, deflecting and also scoring after a “pick six”. Each of these cornerbacks brings a unique set of skills and qualities to the field, making them stand out in the Italian Football League. Their performances this season not only highlight their talents but also underscore the competitive spirit and high level of play within the league. Here's a look at some of the top Cornerbacks in the league so far.
Daniele Angelo Latorraca, Torino Giaguari
At 6’3, Latorraca is a tall cornerback and has the versatility to play at the safety position at times. The young defender is constantly tested on the field, which has allowed him tons of opportunities to prove himself. Latorraca has done just that by leading the IFL in passes defended so far this season.
Marco Fanni, Firenze Guelfi
Playing opposite of an American cornerback, Marco Fanni is tested every game, and always passes that test. He does a great job breaking on passes, and is able to disrupt receivers' timing consistently. This has helped him create a lot of pass deflections and breakups this season.
Bismark Yeboah, Torino Giaguari
Yeboah is a true playmaker for the Giaguari. He plays more of a shutdown role for his defense, but also provides much needed run support. This is why he leads his team in tackles at this point in the season. With limited attempts in the pass game, he has still been able to successfully accrue a few pass breakups and deflections.
Fabio Testoni, Varese Skorpions
Testoni is a rising young talent for the Skorpions. He has excellent coverage skills, and an instinct for getting to the ball carrier. He is one of his team’s leaders in tackles, as well as passes defended.
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