Houston Texans cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. earned the No. 5 ranking in Pro Football Focus's cornerback rankings ahead of the 2025 NFL season, further solidifying his status among the league's most productive defensive backs.
Although Stingley's rookie season was stained by injury, he's generated a PFF coverage grade of 90.3 over the last two seasons — the best mark among all cornerbacks.
PFF also noted Stingley's style of play. A "high-risk, high-reward brand of football" that earned the 2022 No. 3 overall pick a league high 12 interceptions over the past two years.
Stingley recently became the highest paid cornerback in the league after signing a three-year, $90 million contract in March.
During the 2024 campaign, Stingley allowed a league-best 39.6 passer rating when targeted, and his seven interceptions led all cornerbacks. He also received votes for Defensive Player of the Year and was named to PFF's top 25 players under 25 list.
Regardless of his No. 5 spot in the cornerback rankings, some fans were still unsatisfied.
"Anybody who still has Sauce over Stingley doesn’t watch football," one user said.
"It's Stingley and Surtain, and then everyone else. Get serious PFF," another said.
Houston Texans cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. (24) runs onto the field before the game.
Houston Texans cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. (24) runs onto the field before the game against the Indianapolis Colts at NRG Stadium.
Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
Stingley wasn't the only defensive back from the Texans to make PFF's list. Kamari Lassiter ranked 31st among the league's corners.
Lassiter ranked third among rookies in PFF advanced coverage grade and he was 15th among all cornerbacks. He also led the NFL with a 45.2% completion rate allowed. PFF compared Lassiter's rookie season with Cooper DeJean and Quinyon Mitchell.
As the 2025 season approaches, both Stingley and Lassiter will look to anchor the Texans' defense. Stingley's consistent play over the past two seasons and Lassiter's exciting room for growth will be key to the Texans' success.