The 2027 NFL Draft is shaping up to be one of the strongest in recent memory, with an abundance of talent expected to be available beyond the quarterback class. Early evaluations suggest that several non-quarterback prospects possess the potential to be franchise-altering players, with many realistically projected as first-round picks.
Several underclassmen who might have been high picks in the 2026 draft have opted to return to college for another season, further bolstering the 2027 draft class. Among the top non-quarterback prospects, several have already demonstrated elite performance and potential.
Cayden Green, an offensive tackle from Missouri, is noted for his blend of analytics and grit. The 6-foot-5, 324-pound lineman has been a three-year starter since his freshman season at Oklahoma, allowing only two sacks in 751 pass-blocking snaps last year at left tackle. He is recognized for his pass-blocking ability and effectiveness in the running game, offering significant roster flexibility to NFL teams.
Running back Kewan Lacy of Ole Miss emerged as a national leader in rushing touchdowns in the previous season. Known for his suddenness and elusiveness, Lacy also demonstrated power and balance in short-yardage situations. Scouts will be observing if he can maintain his remarkable production following a coaching change.
Ellis Robinson IV, a cornerback from Georgia, earned Freshman Defensive Player of the Year honors in the SEC. As a former five-star recruit, Robinson possesses exceptional athleticism, a tight backpedal, and impressive ball skills. His ability to make plays on the ball, combined with his scrappy tackling, makes him a standout defensive back.
A'Mauri Washington, a defensive tackle at Oregon, is a key player for the team's strong defensive line. Despite his 6-foot-4, 330-pound frame, Washington displays surprising quickness and agility, already possessing NFL-level power. He was considered a potential first-round pick in the 2026 draft but chose to return for another collegiate season.
Wide receiver Cam Coleman of Texas, a transfer from Auburn, is expected to be a prominent figure in the 2027 draft. With strong receiving statistics from his first two seasons and now playing with a talented quarterback and coaching staff, Coleman's size, athleticism, and ability to make acrobatic catches position him as a potential top NFL receiver.
Cornerback Leonard Moore from Notre Dame had a standout sophomore season, earning unanimous All-American honors and being a finalist for national defensive player awards. At 6-foot-2, 197 pounds, Moore has the size and smooth transitional skills to cover top receivers. His ability to break up passes and defend the run, coupled with his physicality, has impressed scouts.
Texas offensive tackle Trevor Goosby is projected to be a top blocker in the 2027 class. Succeeding a highly drafted player at left tackle, Goosby's clean tape and combination of grace and force in both pass protection and run blocking suggest he has Pro Bowl potential.
South Carolina edge rusher Dylan Stewart possesses prototypical size and athleticism for the position. While his production may not fully reflect his talent, his pass-rushing ability, including effective use of his long arms and core flexibility, indicates significant potential. He is viewed as a future All-Pro caliber player.
Collin Simmons, another edge player from Texas, shares similarities with highly-touted prospects from previous drafts. Capable of playing on the edge or as an off-ball linebacker, Simmons combines explosive speed with flexibility and surprising strength. Despite a history of penalties stemming from mental errors, his physical gifts are undeniable and point toward a franchise cornerstone.
Topping the list is Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, whose collegiate production in his first two seasons has already set records within the Big Ten. At 6-foot-3, 223 pounds, Smith combines size, strength, and speed, making him a dominant force in the red zone and a legitimate deep threat. His advanced route-running skills and ability to gain yards after the catch draw comparisons to elite NFL receivers like Julio Jones and DK Metcalf.