Boise State’s Top Players: #5

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INGLEWOOD, CA - DECEMBER 13: Boise State Broncos cornerback Jaden Mickey (20) tackles Washington Huskies wide receiver Denzel Boston (12) during the Bucked Up LA Bowl hosted by Gronk between the Boise State Broncos and the Washington Huskies on December 13, 2025, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, CA.(Photo by Karl Anderson/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Every year I take a look at who I think will be the top players on Boise State’s football team. With so many unproven players, coming up with this season’s list was a bit tougher than previous years. This team’s squad is definitely more proven on the offensive side of the ball and that is reflected in our list. Last week, we continued our countdown by taking a look at a physical running back. This week, we move back to the defensive side of the ball with a defensive back that is emerging as a fan favorite. Coming in at number five we have…

Jaden Mickey

Last season was Mickey’s first in Boise after transferring from Notre Dame in the spring of 2025. Mickey started the season as a reserve at nickel before becoming the starter after showing a knack for making clutch tackles and being dependable in coverage. Mickey became a fan favorite last season after suffering what looked like a season-ending concussion and returning to become one of the Broncos’ best players on the defensive side of the ball. Mickey’s breakout game came against a talented UNLV offense where he finished the game with seven tackles, two tackles for loss, and a sack.

This season, Mickey is expected to move to cornerback and be the leader of a young but talented secondary. As he enters his final season of college football, Mickey will be looking to make an impression on pro scouts. I expect Mickey to have an all-conference season and emerge as one of the best defensive players in the PAC 12.

Countdown so far:

#10: Ben Ford and Rasean Jones

#9: Boen Phelps

#8: Derek Ganter Jr.

#7: Matt Wagner

#6: Sire Gaines

#5: Jaden Mickey

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