NFL free agency 2020: Best cornerbacks available

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EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY – DECEMBER 22: Brian Poole #34 of the New York Jets looks on during the first half of the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at MetLife Stadium on December 22, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images) /

2. Brian Poole (New York Jets)

Of all the names on this list, his may be the least well-known. But don’t tell that to the people at Pro Football Focus (subscription required), who have New York Jets’ defender Brian Poole as a Top 10 cornerback. And it will be interesting to see if the one-time member of the Florida Gators returns to aid coordinator Gregg Williams’ defense in 2020.

After three seasons with the Atlanta Falcons, the versatile pro was made available last offseason and the Green and White would secure his services. In 2019, he played in 14 games and made a career-high 10 starts. He finished sixth on the club with 58 tackles, to go along with five passes defensed and one interception. And it’s worth noting that he was one of only 11 players at his position to earn at least a grade of 80 when it came to pass coverage this past season. While Poole did not record a sack this past season (he had 3 with the Falcons in 2018), he was credited with four quarterback hits.

The 5’10”, 213-pound performer can also be an asset on special teams. During his four-year NFL career, he’s been used in a variety of ways and the 27-year-old could help out a defense in a variety of ways. Of course, there’s a lot to be said about those coverage skills and it will be interesting to see if the Jets are willing to let him test the open market come March 18.

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