League: NFL Sport: Football Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Derek Stingley Jr. ranks second among NFL cornerbacks behind Patrick Surtain II

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 8, 2026, 1:38 AM

Last updated Jul 8, 2026

Derek Stingley Jr. ranks second among NFL cornerbacks behind Patrick Surtain II

Summary

On July 8, 2026, ESPN released its annual cornerback rankings, placing Derek Stingley Jr. of the Houston Texans at No. 2, just behind Patrick Surtain II of the Denver Broncos. Stingley garnered multiple first-place votes and demonstrated exceptional playmaking ability with 14 interceptions and 46 passes defended since the start of the 2023 season. Despite Surtain's accolades, including All-Pro selections and a Defensive Player of the Year award, analysts note that Stingley is closing the gap. The rankings reflect a shift in perception of Stingley's increasing impact in the secondary as he continues to perform at a high level.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•ESPN cornerback rankings released on July 8, 2026.
•Patrick Surtain II retains the top spot.
•Derek Stingley Jr. secures second place with multiple first-place votes.
•Stingley leads NFL with 14 interceptions since 2023.
•Stingley combines elite man-to-man and zone coverage skills.

Latest Updates

1:38 AMYahoo Sports — ESPN Ranks Derek Stingley Jr. At Numer 2 Behind Patrick Surtain II

What they're saying

"
League insiders crown Patrick Surtain II, but the data suggests Houston's ball-hawking phenom is closing the gap by transforming lockdown defense into a historic turnover clinic.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Houston Texans NFL Football