2021 IDP Redraft Rankings – Cornerbacks

ByRyan Sitzmann Posted on Updated on

Listed below is a sample of my 2021 Cornerback Rankings for IDP Redraft Leagues. I will periodically update these throughout the off-season to reflect changes in free agency, defensive schemes, playing time, draft selections, etc. However, keep in mind that the information listed here is just a small sample of a much larger set of rankings and descriptions that are accessible through purchasing my 2021 IDP Fantasy Football Draft Guide. Or get access to both my draft guide and all of my premium in-season content by signing up for the Gold Package. 

Drafting Philosophy:
It’s difficult to find cornerbacks that are consistent year-to-year producers as their opportunity is often reliant on how often quarterbacks throw the ball their direction, along with their role in the defensive scheme. To help find value, many owners leverage the “rookie corner rule” strategy which targets first year players at the position. Since these players typically get thrown at early and often, they tend to see above average point scoring opportunity. Another, albeit less effective, strategy is to seek out players on winning teams. These types of teams typically have leads over their opponents and therefore see a high amount of pass attempts as opposing teams play catch up.

Scoring System:
Solo Tackle = 1.5 points
Assist = 0.75 points
Tackles for Loss = 2 points
Sack = 4 points
Interception = 5 points
Forced Fumble = 4 points
Fumble Recovery = 4 points
Pass Deflection = 1.5 point
Defensive TD = 6 points
Safeties = 2 points

 

1. Logan Ryan CB – NYG (10), +1 vs. ECR
Despite coming off a career statistical season with the Titans in 2019, Ryan struggled to find a home in 2020 until he eventually landed with the Giants. He took on an every down role with the team pretty much immediately and posted strong fantasy numbers in the process. The return of Xavier McKinney and emergence of Jabrill Peppers makes for a crowded secondary, but the team is committed to Ryan as signaled by their long-term extension this off-season. He’s versatile enough to play multiple positions which should ensure he maintains full playing time and DB2 value as a result. However, he isn’t classified as a cornerback in all league management platforms.

2. Marlon Humphrey CB – BAL (8), +0 vs. ECR
Humphrey saw a massive leap forward in fantasy production in his third season, largely due to the team adding veteran Marcus Peters at the other outside corner position. This forced teams to throw Humphrey’s way much more often and translated into increased opportunity across the board. Year-to-year variation in tackle production is always a risk with corners but Humphrey’s playmaking ability (e.g. 8 forced fumbles last year) make him the logical option to be the first corner taken in most fantasy drafts (if Logan Ryan is classified at corner in your league).

3. Kenny Moore II CB – IND (14), +14 vs. ECR 
Moore has been one of fantasy’s top corners over the last three seasons and finished with career numbers in 2020. His 76 total tackles were good enough for sixth best at the position and he reigned in four interceptions to boot. There’s always more risk with corners but Moore has proven his consistency and is one of the safest picks at this volatile position.

4. Trevon Diggs CB – DAL (7), +13 vs. ECR (SLEEPER)
Diggs was a top 15 cornerback despite only playing in 12 games last year. Some of that may be a result of the “rookie corner rule” and teams picking on him. However, he profiles as a player that can build upon that first year production. He’s aggressive and takes risks which helps his big play ability but he’s not good enough yet for teams to avoid throwing his way, so he should see plenty of tackle opportunity. And with the Cowboys presumably a better team this year, teams will likely be forced to throw more against them further increasing his point scoring chances.

5. Carlton Davis CB – TB (9), +4 vs. ECR
Davis has been a top 10ish cornerback in back-to-back seasons, providing a stable option for owners required to roster this position in their fantasy leagues. He’s been able to accomplish this through being one of the better run defenders at this position and he’s starting to hone his big play skills too as evidenced by his career high four interceptions last year. He’s a fairly solid DB3/CB1-.

6. Taron Johnson CB – BUF (7), -4 vs. ECR
Johnson was second among all cornerbacks in total tackles last year with 96 playing an aggressive style of football as the Bills’ slot corner. He’s not likely to produce much in the way of interceptions or pass deflections but he should continue to rack up 4-5 solos and 1-2 assists per game as long as he can stay healthy.


Like what you’ve read so far? Looking to dominate your 2021 Fantasy Football draft(s)? For $8.99 you can get complete access to The IDP Guru’s comprehensive and exhaustive 2021 IDP Fantasy Football Draft Guide. OR you can get both my Draft Guide and access to all my In-Season Premium Content by purchasing my 2021 Gold Package for just $14.99. 

2021 IDP Draft Guide Features:

  • Continually Updated in Real-Time Until Start of the Regular Season (9/9)*
  • 280 Defensive Players Ranked in Tiered Fashion – 90 DL, 100 LB, 90 DB
  • Customizable Projections for All Ranked IDPs
  • Detailed Player Descriptions**
  • Overall Top 100 IDP Rankings List
  • Sleeper/Target/Avoid Notation
  • Top 50 IDP Rookie Rankings
  • Rankings Comparison to FantasyPros’ Expert Consensus (ECR) Rankings
  • Excel Export Functionality

Questions, comments, or concerns with any of these recommendations? If so, please let me know by hitting me up on Twitter or emailing me at theidpguru@idpguru.com.

Last Updated: August 2, 2020