Perhaps no position is more elite in Southwest Virginia high school football than defensive back. Between corners and safeties, these athletes showcase their skills as lightning-fast defenders, ball hawks and fierce tacklers capable of stifling any offense.

The detailed list below features three players who have committed to FBS programs and several more who are gaining interest from the Division I ranks.

Here are nine defensive backs to watch this season.

Izaiah Cotto, Christiansburg

The 5-foot-11, 165-pound strong safety, usually the single high safety for the Blue Demons, can high-point the ball with extreme accuracy and pick off passes in close coverage. His speed allows him to get to the ball and deflect passes, or corral ballcarriers for small gains.

Cotto intercepted six passes

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