March 19, 2026, 6:02 a.m. PT
Cornerback appears to be one of the Las Vegas Raiders’ weaker position groups heading into next month’s 2026 NFL draft. The overwhelming expectation is that they’re going to select quarterback Fernando Mendoza at No. 1 overall. With the 36th selection, cornerback will be one of the positions they may choose to target.
The Raiders re-signed Eric Stokes to defend the boundary. They acquired Taron Johnson via trade to play nickel. Sophomore corner Darien Porter may receive an opportunity to earn the opposite starting spot. With that in mind, we’ve identified three cornerbacks the Raiders could target with the 36th pick.
Brandon Cisse, CB, South Carolina
Brandon Cisse is incredibly athletic. The former South Carolina standout leaped a 41-inch vertical and 10-foot-11 broad jump at the NFL Combine. Cisse is unbelievably explosive, but the technical aspects of his game remain a work in progress. He’s not as raw as Porter was, but refinement is definitely needed.
Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson
Clemson’s Avieon Terrell is the younger brother of Atlanta Falcons cornerback A.J. Terrell. Like his older brother, he’s incredibly smooth and patient in coverage. Some NFL scouts see Terrell as a nickel corner due to modest size (5-11, 186), but we believe he can hold up outside due to excellent technique and coverage instincts.
Expert NFL picks: Exclusive betting insights only at USA TODAY.Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee
Colton Hood is another uber-athletic cornerback in this class who is a fringe first-round pick. The McDonough, Georgia native ran a 4.44 and leaped a 40.5-inch vertical and 10-foot-5 broad jump at the combine. Hood was also the best cornerback in attendance at this year’s Senior Bowl.