Georgia landed Oklahoma defensive back Gentry Williams, giving the Bulldogs a fourth defensive back addition in the 2026 cycle. Williams has one year of eligibility left after four seasons at Oklahoma, and he missed most of the last two seasons due to shoulder injuries but had 2023 stats of 30 tackles, 3 interceptions and 4.0 TFL. Georgia has been active in the transfer portal, adding Conley, Barnes and Riddle to bolster its secondary as it rebuilds the room.
The Seahawks' Week 7 game against the Texans sees the return of cornerback Riq Woolen from concussion, but safety Julian Love and cornerback Devon Witherspoon remain inactive due to injuries, with both expected to return after the bye week. Outside linebacker Derick Hall is also out with an injury, while reserve tackle Josh Jones is active.
The San Francisco 49ers signed former seventh-round pick William Bradley-King to their practice squad and held multiple tryouts for defensive backs, including Titus Leo, Isaiah Thomas, Jaylen Mahoney, Brandon Joseph, and Shilo Sanders, as they seek to bolster their pass rush and defensive back depth following Nick Bosa's ACL injury.
Shilo Sanders made a strong debut for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in their preseason game, impressing with a blitz and a hit on the quarterback, as he battles for a roster spot in a competitive defensive backfield. His performance was praised by coach Todd Bowles, and he shared a special moment with his Hall of Fame father, Deion Sanders.
Cooper DeJean's impressive performance at his Pro Day likely dashed the Green Bay Packers' hopes of landing him at pick #25 in the NFL Draft, as his outstanding workout and recovery from injury have likely raised his draft stock. The Packers may need to trade up to have a chance at acquiring him, especially with other defensive back-needy teams ahead of them in the draft order. DeJean's versatility and athleticism make him an enticing prospect, and his potential impact on special teams adds to his value.
The Buffalo Bills have agreed to a three-year, $31 million contract extension with defensive back Taron Johnson, making him the NFL's highest paid nickel back. Johnson, who earned second-team All-Pro honors last season, has become an indispensable piece of the Bills' defense and is valued for his ability to bridge pass coverage and run defending. The extension not only secures Johnson's future with the team but also provides short-term cap relief for the Bills.
The Los Angeles Rams have signed defensive back Kamren Curl to a two-year deal worth up to $13 million, addressing their need for safety help. Fans and analysts have praised the move, considering it a steal and highlighting Curl's versatility and strong tackling ability. The signing is seen as a significant addition to the Rams' defense, with many expressing surprise at the relatively low cost of the deal in the current safety market.
The Philadelphia Eagles are signing defensive back C.J. Gardner-Johnson to a three-year deal worth up to $33 million, marking his return to the team after a one-season stint in 2022. Despite missing games due to injury, Gardner-Johnson tied for the NFL lead in interceptions that season. He then briefly joined the Detroit Lions before rejoining the Eagles, bringing with him a track record of defensive productivity and playmaking ability.
Jalen Mills has agreed to a one-year deal with the New York Giants after spending the last three seasons with the New England Patriots. The former Patriot and Eagle is expected to help fill the void left by Xavier McKinney, who is set to sign with the Green Bay Packers. Mills has experience playing both safety and corner and brings a career total of 406 tackles, 1.5 sacks, seven interceptions, two forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery to the Giants.
The Detroit Lions have signed former Las Vegas cornerback Amik Robertson to a two-year deal worth $9.25 million, with the potential to increase to $10.75 million with incentives. Robertson, a fourth-round pick in 2020, has played in 52 games with 21 starts and was on the field for 60 percent of the Raiders' defensive snaps in 2023, recording 50 total tackles, six passes defensed, a forced fumble, and two interceptions.
Michigan's sophomore defensive back Keon Sabb, who started four games at safety for the Wolverines in 2023, has entered his name into the NCAA transfer portal, potentially leaving the team in search of new opportunities.
Detroit Lions defensive back Gardner-Johnson returned to practice for the first time in over three months after recovering from a torn pectoral muscle. Although he was a limited participant, Gardner-Johnson expressed his excitement to be back with his teammates and around the game. The Lions' defense will benefit from his return as they aim to secure their first division title since 1993. The team's playoff scenarios are simplified, with a win guaranteeing them the NFC North championship and at least one home playoff game. The Lions face a tough challenge against the Minnesota Vikings' defense, which leads the league in blitz percentage. Linebacker Alex Anzalone continues to be a standout performer for the Lions, recording his second consecutive 100-tackle season.
Week 16 IDP waiver wire pickups for fantasy football include linebackers E.J. Speed, Christian Harris, Denzel Perryman, Divine Deablo, and Damone Clark. Defensive line options to consider are Bradley Chubb, Jonathan Cooper, D.J. Wonnum, Travon Walker, and Harold Landry. For defensive backs, Jonathan Owens, Geno Stone, Ifeatu Melifonwu, Brandon Jones, and Trenton Thompson are worth adding.
The University of Texas has secured a major commitment from highly sought-after defensive back Kobe Black, who is ranked as one of the top prospects in the country. Black chose Texas over several other top programs, citing the strong bond he developed with the coaching staff and the sense of family he felt on campus. At 6-1 and 179 pounds, Black is known for his speed and length, making him a valuable addition to the Longhorns' defense. This commitment brings Texas's total number of commitments to 21 and adds to their strong defensive back class.
San Francisco 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan praised Deommodore Lenoir's performance against the Seattle Seahawks, describing it as "unbelievable." Lenoir, who was forced to step up after Charvarius Ward's injury, allowed only two catches for 10 yards on five targets and covered Seahawks receiver DK Metcalf effectively. He also broke up two passes and forced two interceptions, although one was nullified due to a penalty. Lenoir's game was marred by an unnecessary roughness penalty that led to his ejection. Shanahan expressed his disappointment but believes Lenoir has learned a valuable lesson. Lenoir's development has been noticed by his teammates, with left tackle Trent Williams praising his improvement.
