Travis HunterDB, Jackson State
Top247 Rank: #1 Overall, #1 CB
The No. 1 player in the class of 2022 is ready to start and play for Jackson State right away. He’s projecting himself as a lockdown cornerback and impact wide receiver for the Tigers, a team that will be a must-watch, largely because of Hunter. If Hunter lives up to his considerable hype, he should be fighting for FCS All-American honors in Year 1.
JQ HardawayDB, Cincinnati
Top247 rank: #192 overall, #15 safety
That’s not long ago Ahmed Gardner flashed as a true freshman, stepping up to a starting role midway through his debut campaign. Hardaway could follow this path. Another long and lanky cornerback for the Bearcats at 6-foot-3, 200 pounds, Hardway has been working the 2s largely this fall. But it will be very difficult to keep him out of the starting XI for a long time. Those in the program see him as a future star.
Will JohnsonDB, Michigan
Top247 rank: #35 overall, #4 CB
Top Michigan State player Johnson pledges to help the Wolverines immediately. He’s had a strong spring as an early enroller and has continued at that level of play this fall. He might not start right away – upper class DJ Turner and gem green have the inside lane — but Johnson will be a worst-case scenario third cornerback who’s a ton on the field.
Malaki StarkDB, Georgia
Top247 Rank: #4 Overall, #1 Athlete
Starks enrolled in Georgia early and has the makings of an early contributor in a high school looking for an infusion of talent to safety. One of the top overall athletes in the 2022 class, Starks was actually a triple-option QB who played both ways in high school. But Stark’s returns this fall have been strong enough that he’s seen as someone who will make a big contribution to the Bulldogs — and fast.
Azareye’h ThomasDB, State of Florida
Top247 Rank: #121 Overall, #6 Athlete
One of two top-100 DBs to sign with Florida State this cycle, Thomas has quickly proven himself as a playmaker since signing on early. This only continues at fall camp, where Thomas has made one big game after another. Like a few players on this list, Thomas is no obstacle to start with. But that role will likely be his sometime this year. At worst for Florida State, he’s an excellent option as a rotating cornerback who can create takeaways in bunches.