South Carolina Gamecocks defensive back Brandon Cisse announced his decision to forego the 2026 NFL Draft. The talented cornerback will leave school to enter the next draft in April he told ESPN.
“It’s definitely a special feeling,” said Cisse. “It’s something I prayed for my whole life. I’m excited to fulfill my lifelong dream.”
Cisse spent the first to years of his collegiate career with the North Carolina State Wolfpack. He transferred to South Carolina this season and leaves the Gamecocks after a standout season.
In his collegiate career, Cisse has 65 tackles, 10 pass deflections, one forced fumble, and two interceptions. The 6-foot, 190-pound corner is a projected first-round pick and one of the top corners entering next year’s draft.
5 Teams That Could Draft Brandon Cisse
#1 – Cincinnati Bengals
For a few years now, the Cincinnati Bengals have had one of the worst defenses in the NFL. They currently give up the second-most passing yards per game (254.9) and the most touchdown passes per game (2.2.)
As for its secondary, safety Geno Smith will be a free agent next season and Jordan Battle has unperformed.
#2 – Dallas Cowboys
Like the Cincinnati Bengals, the Dallas Cowboys defense, specifically pass defense, is horrible. Top cornerbacks Trevon Diggs and Daron Bland each signed recent contract extensions that neither have lived up to. They’re also both injury prone.
Dallas gives up the second-most passing yards per game (254.9) an is tied with Cincy for most passing touchdowns per game (2.2.)
#3 – Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jacksonville Jaguars may have the best overall defense on this list, but can improve its pass defense. They rank 22nd in yards allowed per game (227.5) and 24th in touchdown passes per game (1.7.)
Cornerback Greg Newsome, (whom they acquired via trade this offseason) is set to become a free agent.
#4 – Arizona Cardinals
The Arizona Cardinals have many positions to address this offseason with one of them being at the cornerback position. The same was the case heading into the 2025 NFL Draft and they used its second pick on Michigan cornerback, Will Johnson, which had paid off.
Maybe Arizona will use one of its early picks to upgrade its secondary.
#5 – Pittsburgh Steelers
Like most of the other teams listed, the Pittsburgh Steelers rank in the bottom half for passing yards and touchdowns allowed this season. Pittsburgh has had good pass-rush production (T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith) and has been solid against the run the last few seasons.
A boost could be used in its secondary and adding a guy like Cisse could help the defense out.
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