The defensive back position is not only one of the most important on defense but also one of the most impactful positions critical to winning games at the highest level. The AFC North boasts some of the best DBs in the NFL, and they all bring something different to the table and their respective teams. Returning this summer is Last Word On The NFL’s top returning series as we examine the best players at their position groups. So, without further ado, let’s rank the top corners or safeties in the division.
Ranking the Best AFC North Defensive Backs for 2026
5. Joey Porter Jr., Pittsburgh Steelers
The fifth spot in the DB rankings was close, and a strong case could be made for the Cincinnati Bengals‘ DJ Turner II to be sitting here also. Edging him out was the Pittsburgh Steelers’ lockdown corner Joey Porter Jr. He’s starting to really come into his own, and his length and sticky coverage skills have given fits to some of the best wideouts in the NFL. Porter enters his fourth year in the league looking to build off his three interceptions as he seeks to cash in on a lucrative contract extension.
4. Nate Wiggins, Baltimore Ravens
The Baltimore Ravens have several players on the list, and Clemson product Nate Wiggins grabs the fourth spot, and he’s put up two solid years in Charm City. Wiggins has played extremely well in divisional games and isn’t afraid to take chances, which has led to three interceptions and 14 passes defended since being drafted in 2024.
3. Denzel Ward, Cleveland Browns
The only Browns player on the list, and it’s one of their best in five-time Pro-Bowler Denzel Ward. He’s been a constant presence in Cleveland’s secondary and has an impressive 18 career interceptions, with several prime years left in Northeast Ohio.
2. Marlon Humphrey, Baltimore Ravens
Marlon Humphrey lands at number two and deservingly so, as he remains at the top of his game, having just turned 30 years old. Humphrey’s impressive accolades include being named a four-time Pro Bowler and 2X first-team All-Pro, with 23 interceptions in 131 games. The Ravens defense is one to watch this season, and it will be interesting to see how they deploy their fantastic secondary under new head coach Jesse Minter.
1. Kyle Hamilton, Baltimore Ravens
No surprise here, as Hamilton is not only the best safety in the division, but he’s one of the best players in all of football. The Gold standard by which all defensive backs are measured, as Hamilton has it all. Intelligence, size, speed, instincts, physicality. He’s the ringleader of Baltimore’s defense, an important chess piece for Minter, and a player who seems to improve with each passing season.
Main Photo: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
