Home / Sports / Jets Draft Indiana's Cornerback Ponds at Pick 50
Jets Draft Indiana's Cornerback Ponds at Pick 50
25 Apr
Summary
- New York Jets selected Indiana cornerback D'Angelo Ponds 50th overall.
- Ponds excelled in man coverage and led his team in passes defended.
- He was named defensive MVP of the Rose Bowl and Peach Bowl.
The New York Jets selected Indiana cornerback D'Angelo Ponds with the 50th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Ponds, a standout in Indiana's defensive scheme, demonstrated exceptional man coverage skills and frequently topped his team in passes defended over three collegiate seasons.
Ponds initially followed coach Curt Cignetti from James Madison, where he achieved freshman All-America status in 2023. During his time with the Hoosiers, he earned first-team All-Big Ten honors twice and scored four touchdowns via interception returns and punt-block returns.
His accolades include being named defensive MVP of the Rose Bowl College Football Playoff quarterfinal and repeating the achievement in the Peach Bowl semifinal. He also set a championship game record with three passes defended in the Hoosiers' 2026 national championship victory.
Scouts note Ponds' quick footwork and body control, enabling him to excel in tight man-to-man coverage or play from depth. Despite his smaller stature, he consistently makes plays on the ball and plays with confidence, though larger athletes may present a challenge.
