By admin 
As the college football landscape prepares for another exciting season, a palpable buzz is building around the 2027 NFL Draft, with early projections pointing towards an exceptionally deep and talented class. While the spotlight has been heavily cast on a trio of highly touted quarterbacks – Texas’s Arch Manning, Oregon’s Dante Moore, and Ohio State’s Julian Sayin – the true strength of this draft class lies in its widespread talent across multiple positions. Beyond the signal-callers, a wealth of potential franchise-altering prospects are poised to make their mark, offering teams the chance to secure foundational pieces for years to come.
This analysis delves into the top 10 non-quarterback prospects who are entering the collegiate season with realistic aspirations of hearing their names called on the first day of the 2027 NFL Draft. In fact, the top seven players on this list are so highly regarded that they would have been considered first-round locks in the 2026 draft. To provide further insight, each prospect is accompanied by a professional comparison, offering a glimpse into their potential NFL playing style and impact.
10. Cayden Green, Offensive Tackle, Missouri
Offensive line evaluation often transcends pure analytics, leaning heavily on intangible qualities like grit and fit. However, Cayden Green of Missouri presents a compelling case that even the most ardent statistician can appreciate. Standing at an imposing 6-foot-5 and weighing 324 pounds, Green is a seasoned veteran, entering his fourth year as a starter since his true freshman season at Oklahoma. His collegiate career began at left guard, where he consistently delivered powerful blocking performances, before transitioning to the critical left tackle position last year. In his debut season at tackle, Green demonstrated remarkable prowess, allowing just two sacks across an impressive 751 pass-blocking snaps. His ability to protect the blind side is a significant asset, but his impact extends beyond pass protection. Green also serves as a potent force in the running game, demonstrating the agility and strength to create lanes for ball carriers. His kick-slide technique exhibits impressive depth, and his lateral agility, coupled with exceptional core strength, allows him to effectively counter opposing rushers. As he enters his second year at tackle, the anticipation is high to see if his already smooth technique can become even more refined. Green’s combination of size, grip strength, competitive drive, and prior experience at guard offers his future NFL team significant roster flexibility, making him a valuable commodity.
Pro Comp: Dion Dawkins, Buffalo Bills
9. Kewan Lacy, Running Back, Ole Miss
Kewan Lacy’s journey from a backup at Missouri to the nation’s leading rusher with 24 touchdowns at Ole Miss in the previous season is a testament to his explosive talent. Lacy is characterized by his suddenness and elusiveness, consistently evading and outmaneuvering defenders en route to highlight-reel plays. His ability to generate big gains is undeniable, but he also excels in short-yardage situations, showcasing impressive leg drive, balance through contact, and a sheer determination to push for crucial yards. Standing at 5-foot-11 and 225 pounds, Lacy led the nation in touches in 2025 with 335, underscoring his central role in the Ole Miss offense. While the creative play-calling of former head coach Lane Kiffin undoubtedly contributed to his success, scouts will be keenly observing Lacy’s ability to replicate his remarkable sophomore campaign now that Kiffin has transitioned to Baton Rouge. His ability to find the end zone and carry a heavy workload makes him a compelling prospect for NFL teams seeking a dynamic offensive weapon.
Pro Comp: TreVeyon Henderson, New England Patriots
8. Ellis Robinson IV, Cornerback, Georgia
While not as overtly flashy as some of his peers, Ellis Robinson IV’s impact on the defensive side of the ball has been equally significant. The Georgia cornerback earned FWAA Freshman Defensive Player of the Year honors last season, tying for the SEC lead with four interceptions. Robinson embodies the athletic prowess expected of a former five-star recruit from IMG Academy. His defensive repertoire includes a tight, low backpedal and an effortless hip turn, allowing him to track receivers downfield with impressive balance and burst out of his breaks. His recovery speed is legitimate, enabling him to make plays even when trailing. Furthermore, Robinson is a surprisingly tenacious tackler, demonstrating a willingness to engage physically with ball carriers. Perhaps his most remarkable attribute is his ball-hawking ability. Despite his exceptional footwork, Robinson’s hands are a significant strength. While he can be prone to occasional grabbing downfield, his excellent ball location and impressive hand-eye coordination allow him to either intercept passes or dislodge them from receivers at the last moment. His rare body control and extension capabilities are evident in his ability to make difficult catches look routine, as showcased in interceptions against Georgia Tech and Charlotte.
Pro Comp: Trent McDuffie, Los Angeles Rams
7. A’Mauri Washington, Defensive Tackle, Oregon
While Oregon’s star quarterback Dante Moore garners considerable attention, A’Mauri Washington stands as a literal and figurative cornerstone of what could be a championship-contending Ducks team. Washington is considered the linchpin of what is arguably the most formidable defensive line in college football. He would have been a first-round selection in the 2026 draft, but like several of his Oregon teammates, he opted to return for another collegiate season. At 6-foot-4 and 330 pounds, Washington possesses surprising quickness and agility for his size. He already exhibits NFL-caliber power, effortlessly shedding blockers with a remarkable ability to stack and discard them. His bull rush is particularly potent, as evidenced by the impact he had on last year’s No. 1 overall pick, Fernando Mendoza. Washington’s presence in the middle of the defensive line commands attention and disrupts opposing offenses, making him a disruptive force at the collegiate level and a highly coveted prospect for the NFL.
Pro Comp: Kenny Clark, Dallas Cowboys
6. Cam Coleman, Wide Receiver, Texas
The hype surrounding Arch Manning has been considerable, but the anticipation for Cam Coleman’s potential in the 2027 NFL Draft is set to reach even greater heights as the Texas Longhorns aim for a national title. Coleman, the first of three Longhorns featured in this list, transferred to Austin from Auburn, where he accumulated 93 receptions for 1,306 yards and 13 touchdowns over his first two seasons, often despite a less-than-stellar supporting cast. While his statistics are impressive, his game tape reveals an even more compelling picture of a playmaker already possessing first-round talent. His star power is expected to ascend to new levels playing alongside Manning and under the tutelage of Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian, renowned for his offensive acumen. At 6-foot-3 and 200 pounds, Coleman possesses the ideal size and athleticism for a future No. 1 NFL receiver. He moves with effortless grace, exhibiting explosive acceleration and fluid change-of-direction skills. His exceptional body control and sticky hands allow him to make acrobatic catches even in tight coverage. His transition to a potent Texas offense, coupled with his inherent talent, positions him as a premier wide receiver prospect.
Pro Comp: George Pickens, Dallas Cowboys
5. Leonard Moore, Cornerback, Notre Dame
Cornerback, while not always universally viewed as a premium position by NFL teams, is where Leonard Moore’s exceptional profile truly shines, potentially elevating his draft stock even further. Moore is coming off a unanimous All-American season as a true sophomore, recording five interceptions and earning finalist honors for both the Jim Thorpe Award (nation’s top defensive back) and the Bronko Nagurski Award (best overall defender). Standing at an imposing 6-foot-2 and 197 pounds, Moore possesses intimidating size for a cornerback. His transition out of his backpedal into a full sprint is remarkably smooth, and he displays advanced ball-tracking skills for his age, demonstrating an immediate read on underneath routes and impressive downhill quickness to close on the quarterback. Over his first two collegiate seasons, Moore has broken up or intercepted more passes (25) than he has allowed first downs (23). He is also a physical tackler, having forced three fumbles. These statistics are particularly impressive given Notre Dame’s frequent deployment of Moore in man coverage against opposing team’s top receivers, including extensive reps from the nickel position. His blend of size, athleticism, and playmaking ability makes him a highly sought-after defensive back.
Pro Comp: Christian Gonzalez, New England Patriots
4. Trevor Goosby, Offensive Tackle, Texas
While former Texas standout Kelvin Banks Jr. was the No. 9 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, Trevor Goosby, the Longhorns’ current left tackle, may represent an upgrade at the position. Standing at a towering 6-foot-7 and 325 pounds, Goosby has quickly established himself as a premier offensive line prospect. Pro Football Focus credited him with only three sacks allowed out of 492 pass-blocking reps last season, but a closer examination of his tape suggests he was rarely truly at fault. His pass protection was among the cleanest in the 2026 draft class, a year that saw nine offensive linemen selected in the first round. Goosby is still developing physically, but he already moves with an exciting blend of grace and power, projecting as a future Pro Bowl talent, if not an All-Pro. In pass protection, he eases off the snap, slides laterally with efficiency, and maintains a square base against rushers. As a run blocker, Goosby exhibits impressive bend, balance, and the raw power to displace defenders and create running lanes. His combination of size, athleticism, and technical proficiency makes him a top-tier offensive tackle prospect.
Pro Comp: Laremy Tunsil, Washington Commanders
3. Dylan Stewart, Edge Rusher, South Carolina
Dylan Stewart is poised to be one of the most scrutinized non-quarterback prospects in the 2027 draft class. While possessing remarkable physical gifts, his statistical production has not always aligned with his immense talent. Stewart, who stands at a prototypical 6-foot-5 and 250 pounds, boasts long arms that he effectively utilizes to lock out blockers and lasso ball carriers. As a pass rusher, he displays a sudden burst off the snap and excellent core flexibility, enabling him to dip under the reach of offensive tackles and close on the quarterback with alarming speed. Despite recording 11.5 sacks over his first two seasons in the highly competitive SEC, his frequent pressures suggest his sack numbers could be significantly higher. Stewart’s combination of size and athleticism provides a strong foundation for future development. He is already technically sound with refined pass-rushing techniques and is continuing to grow into his frame and game. His potential to develop into an All-Pro caliber edge rusher is evident, making him a high-upside prospect for NFL teams.
Pro Comp: Robert Quinn (retired)
2. Collin Simmons, Edge Rusher, Texas
Collin Simmons shares many similarities with the 2026 No. 5 overall pick, Arvel Reese, showcasing a versatile skillset that allows him to excel as an edge rusher or an off-ball linebacker. Simmons possesses exceptional speed on the perimeter, accelerating off the ball with the explosiveness of a receiver getting into their route. He is not only explosive but also remarkably flexible, weaving his way through waves of blockers. His anticipation and ability to diagnose plays are standout qualities, leaving opposing quarterbacks and offensive linemen with little chance. At 6-foot-3 and 240 pounds, Simmons demonstrates surprising strength, generating significant power with his momentum to bulldoze through much larger blockers. He has amassed 21 sacks in his first two collegiate seasons, despite starting only 13 games, highlighting his efficiency and impact. Simmons’ physical gifts are undeniable and will almost certainly secure him a top-five selection in the draft. However, he is not without flaws. He has been penalized a dozen times in two seasons, often due to mental errors such as lining up in the neutral zone or unnecessary late hits. Despite these occasional hiccups, Simmons possesses the foundational attributes of a future franchise cornerstone.
Pro Comp: Von Miller, Dallas Cowboys
1. Jeremiah Smith, Wide Receiver, Ohio State
Discussing Jeremiah Smith often ventures into the realm of hyperbole, given his unprecedented production and elite physical tools. Ohio State has a storied history of producing NFL-caliber wide receivers, and Smith’s performance through his first two seasons in Columbus is exceptional, even by their lofty standards. His 2,558 receiving yards and 27 touchdowns are not only records for an Ohio State receiver but also surpass all pass-catchers in Big Ten history during their first two collegiate seasons. Alongside legends like Calvin Johnson, Julio Jones, Derrick Henry, Myles Garrett, and Penei Sewell, Smith is one of the rare players evaluated who possessed the capability to play in the NFL as a true freshman. At a powerful 6-foot-3 and 223 pounds, Smith can physically overwhelm most collegiate defensive backs. His size and strength make him an ideal red-zone weapon, where he displays excellent timing and hand-eye coordination to win contested catches. He is also a legitimate vertical threat, accelerating smoothly and tracking the ball effectively over his shoulder. Smith excels on slant and crossing routes, using his frame to shield defenders and showcasing impressive vision to gain yards after the catch. His ability to outrun pursuit angles and slip through defensive coverage is remarkable, drawing comparisons to a "runaway freight train."
Comparisons to past size-and-speed phenoms like Johnson, Jones, and DK Metcalf will be prevalent throughout the draft process. However, the most striking aspect of Smith’s game is his advanced route-running ability, which surpasses that of these elite receivers coming out of college. His well-rounded skillset and immediate impact potential solidify his status as one of the most electrifying receiving prospects in years.
Pro Comp: Julio Jones (retired)
