As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, the spotlight is firmly on Duke's standout cornerback, Chandler Rivers. Fans are eager to see where this talented player will land in the pros. Despite a draft class not overflowing with Blue Devils, Rivers has generated significant buzz, especially with a recent pro comparison.
NFL draft analyst Ian Harper has likened Rivers to the Arizona Cardinals’ Garrett Williams. This comparison highlights Rivers' scrappiness, fluid movement, and knack for reading routes.
Harper suggests that Rivers, a potential Day 2 pick, is a starting-caliber defensive back who excels without relying on physicality. However, there's room for growth in his discipline and focus on assignments.
Rivers' journey to the draft has been noteworthy. Before the 2025 season, he was already seen as a top cornerback prospect. Over his first three years at Duke, Rivers racked up 164 tackles, 21 pass deflections, 12 tackles for loss, and five interceptions, showcasing his playmaking abilities.
Yet, during his senior year, some of the initial excitement cooled. Despite this, Rivers continued to impress with 59 tackles, eight pass deflections, three tackles for loss, and two interceptions.
His draft stock has been affected by his size-standing at 5-foot-10 and weighing 180 pounds, he doesn't fit the typical mold of an NFL boundary cornerback. While he primarily played outside at Duke, his future likely lies as a slot cornerback in the NFL.
Rivers' tenacity and aggressive style make him an ideal candidate for teams seeking a feisty slot cornerback in the draft. His journey is a testament to his skill and determination, and it will be fascinating to see how his NFL career unfolds.