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The second edition of the 2027 NFL Draft Big Board has expanded to 50 prospects, reflecting significant changes as the college football season enters its final stretch. While the quarterback class has faced challenges, new talent has emerged, alongside notable shifts in the offensive and defensive tackle rankings.
Top Prospects and Positional Shifts
Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith holds the top spot on the board. He is considered one of the most talented receiver prospects in recent memory and is a strong candidate to be the first non-quarterback selected, with the potential to go first overall. Following him is Notre Dame cornerback Leonard Moore, who has demonstrated elite coverage skills, and South Carolina edge rusher Dylan Stewart, who has shown significant promise since returning from suspension.
Indiana wide receiver Charlie Becker ranks fourth, noted for his length and vertical speed, while Oklahoma State’s Drew Mestemaker takes the top spot among quarterbacks at number five. Despite some inconsistent decision-making, Mestemaker is viewed as a creative playmaker capable of driving an offense.
Quarterback Class Outlook
The quarterback position has seen a shift from being viewed as a potentially generational group to a more disappointing one. However, several players remain high-priority targets. Trinidad Chambliss of Ole Miss ranks 12th, praised for his inherent playmaking ability and arm talent. Texas’ Arch Manning sits at 18th; while he has struggled with consistency in his fourth year, scouts still value his underlying traits. Missouri’s Austin Simmons, ranked 20th, has emerged as a top talent in the class due to his natural throwing ability, while Miami’s Darian Mensah (22nd) and Notre Dame’s CJ Carr (25th) continue to draw attention for their production and maturity.
Notable Risers and Defensive Talent
The defensive rankings feature several rising stars. Georgia linebacker Chris Cole (10th) is ascending quickly due to his athleticism and impact, while Tennessee defensive tackle Xavier Gilliam (11th) has become a standout for his explosiveness. Alabama’s Devan Thompkins (24th) has also gained traction, proving to be a versatile and impactful presence on the defensive line.
On the offensive line, LSU’s Jordan Seaton (9th) leads the tackle group despite some technical inconsistencies. Minnesota’s Greg Johnson (16th) and Kentucky’s Lance Heard (19th) have also seen their stock rise, with Johnson displaying versatility across the line and Heard showing significant potential as a run blocker.
Other notable prospects include Florida running back Jadan Baugh (14th), who is currently the top-ranked back in the class, and Oregon tight end Jamari Johnson (26th), who offers an NFL-ready frame. The list concludes with UCLA linebacker Sammy Omosigho at 50th, recognized for his role as a versatile leader on defense.
As the college football season progresses toward April, these rankings remain subject to change based on player performance and draft declarations.
