Arizona high school football 2024: The Republic's Top 10 defensive backs to see

There is no shortage of defensive backs in Arizona high school football in 2024. Just look at the Division I offers going out to the DBs in this state.

This last layer of defense — a combination of cornerbacks and safeties — has a skill level that's off the charts and will make it tough for receivers to beat them.

Last week, we broke down the top 10 linebackers.

With coaches weighing in, The Arizona Republic has put together the top 10 combined corners and safeties to see this season, regardless of year in school. This was a tough list to narrow down.

The Republic's Top 10 defensive backs

1. Jamar Beal-Goines, Goodyear Desert Edge, 6-0, 170, Sr.

It is hard to find a faster, more athletic, tougher corner in the state. During the track and field season, he ran 100 meters in 10.43 seconds. His vertical jump has been measured at 42 inches. He is a 247Sports Composite four-star recruit who has committed to Texas A&M. He holds 20 Division I college football offers.

2. Cree Thomas, Phoenix Brophy Prep, 6-1, 180, Sr.

He has committed to the University of Notre Dame, where he'll have a chance to play right away. He's got the versatility to play both cornerback and safety. Last year, he did a great job containing the state's No. 1 wide receiver, Scottsdale Notre Dame Prep's Cooper Perry, in a 42-17 win.

3. Rylon Dillard-Allen, Phoenix Mountain Pointe, 6-1, 175, Sr.

Dillard-Allen made a big impact in the second half of last season, after becoming eligible for the Pride. He transferred last year from Desert Vista. He can play either safety spot and nickel. He's a big hitter with tremendous ball skills. He will also play receiver on offense.

4. Zeth Thues, Peoria Liberty, 5-11, 185, Jr.

He transferred in December from Scottsdale Saguaro, where he helped lead the Sabercats to the 6A title with 78 tackles, 44 solo, two interceptions and eight pass breakups. His instincts and athleticism put him a cut above most safeties. If he has to sit the first five games due to the transfer rule, he'll make an immediate midseason impact for the defending Open state champions.

5. Justice Brathwaite, Gilbert Higley, 6-0, 175, Jr.

He was the overall MVP of the last big June 7-on-7 high school passing tournament, the Just Chilly Flight Club, which the Knights won. His recruiting has blown up since the end of last season, when he was a big part of Higley's second straight 5A championship. Arizona State, BYU, San Diego State and Colorado State are among those who have offered the junior.

6. Niko Jandreau, Chandler Hamilton, 6-1, 190, Jr.

Jandreau is one of the stronger and more athletic strong safeties in the state. He'll occasionally line up at outside linebacker. The Huskies will move him around. He's great at closing in fast to make tackles. He had 51 tackles, two interceptions and 12 pass breakups as a sophomore starter.

7. Grady Crandall, Gilbert Highland, 6-3, 195, Jr.

He made first-team All-6A last season as a sophomore at free safety. He had six interceptions and five pass deflections, helping the Hawks make the Open Division playoffs for the first time. His instincts and playmaking abilities give the Hawks hope of reaching the eight-team Open again.

8. Dominic Mitchell, Brophy Prep, 6-2, 200, Sr.

A 247Sports three-star recruit, he has committed to Kansas State. He holds nine Division I offers. Versatile, tough. Can play linebacker and strong safety. Figures to be a safety in college. Big playmaker on defense.

9. Cannon Garday, Liberty, 6-1, 210, Jr.

Played a big role on arguably the state's best defense last year, when he had 62 tackles and a blocked punt, helping the Lions win the Open title. His size, sure tackling skills and athletic ability make him a game-changer.

10. Percy "Trey" Knox III, Chandler Basha, 5-10, 170, Jr.

Talented cover corner with great football instincts. He's fast, quick and rarely gets beat. Started at cornerback last season for the Bears but can also play free safety. He has made big gains each year in the program.

Richard Obert has been covering high school sports since the 1980s for The Arizona Republic. He also covers Grand Canyon University athletics and the Arizona Rattlers. To suggest human-interest story ideas and other news, reach Obert at richard.obert@arizonarepublic.com or 602-316-8827. Follow him on X, formerly Twitter: @azc_obert

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Arizona high school football 2024: The Republic's Top 10 defensive backs to see