Well, here we go. It’s time to start ranking the best players in the ACC for the 2023 season.
As usual, we hope you enjoy the rankings.
Previous and Upcoming Rankings
Quarterbacks | Running Backs | Wide Receivers | Offensive Linemen |
Tight Ends | Defensive Lineman | Linebackers | Safeties | Special Teams
1) Aydan White, NC State
Cornerback Aydan White of NC State was a first-team All-ACC player in 2022, a pre-season first-team All-ACC player from Athlon Sports, and a pre-season first-team All-ACC player from Phil Steele. He had 46 tackles and 4 interceptions in 2022. Last September, he even earned a Walter Camp national player defensive of the week award . NFL draft projections currently having him going in the middle rounds. You get the idea, don’t throw it White’s way.
2) Fentrell Cypress II, Florida State
Florida State picked up one of the best defensive transfers in the ACC with Fentrell Cypress II. Cypress is coming off a second team All-ACC season at Virginia. Now at FSU, he’s another piece to the talented Noles team. Last year he had 39 tackles and 14 passes defended. At 6-4, he has the size that’s difficult to throw against. Like White, he’s considered a middle-round NFL pick.
3) M.J. Devonshire, Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh has been putting together quality defenses for a while now. There is a good chance the defense will be solid again with players like CB M.J. Devonshire. Devonshire was an honorable mention All-ACC pick at CB in 2022 with 34 tackles, 8 pass breakups, and 3 interceptions. The versatile player is also one of the best return specialists in the ACC.
4) Nate Wiggins, Clemson
Clemson’s pass defense struggled last season ending up 76th in the nation. If that’s going to improve CB Nate Wiggins will be a big part of it. After a rough game in September 2022 against Wake Forest, Wiggins just kept improving into one of the better cornerbacks in the ACC with 25 tackles and 15 pass breakups. Some NFL projections have him as high as a first-round NFL pick. His upside is off the charts, he just needs more consistency.
5) Mansoor Delane, Virginia Tech
Virginia Tech has a tremendous defensive back tradition. Is Mansoor Delane the next in line for the Hokies? Delane is coming off a breakout freshman season where he was named to several freshman All-American teams. He was also named honorable mention All-ACC. He only started 4 games and still had 38 tackles and an interception. What is he going to do as he gains more and more experience? He may top this list one day.
