The 2026 NFL season hasn't kicked off yet, but that doesn't mean draft season isn't well underway. With the college football season underway, we're officially in open season for the 2027 NFL Draft, which features what could be one of the deepest quarterback classes in years.
With plenty of elite talent and talented QBs, the 2027 class could build the foundation for dozens of franchises. Using PFN's NFL Mock Draft Simulator , let's project where the top prospects will land come April.
Giving Jacoby Brissett a raise, signing Gardner Minshew, and drafting Carson Beck in the third round will not deter the Arizona Cardinals from drafting a quarterback if they land the top pick in the 2027 NFL Draft.
While Beck is an intriguing young option who looked good in preseason, he doesn't have the skills that Dante Moore has. The combination of arm talent, ball placement, and quick release was enough to have Moore mocked to the New York Jets at No. 2 during last year's draft process before he decided to return to school. Many expect him to be the top quarterback off the board in 2027, if not the top pick.
It would be extremely difficult for the Miami Dolphins to pass up possibly the highest-ranked player in this year's class. Jeremiah Smith's size and athleticism have allowed him to dominate the college level for three years now, and with that, he should have a seamless transition to the NFL.
The Dolphins have completely stripped their receiving corps, leaving Malik Willis without true No. 1 or 2 options to throw to. Enter Smith to fix that.
It's clear Geno Smith was brought in to be a band-aid at quarterback. While rookie Cade Klubnik is on the roster, it's unlikely he solves all the Jets' quarterback issues.
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Arch Manning finally started to develop late last year, showing he's not just an above-average runner. He was able to hit on plenty of deep balls and off-platform throws with his pocket mobility, displaying the qualities that a modern NFL quarterback needs to succeed.
The Cleveland Browns completely rebuilt their offensive line in the 2025 offseason, bringing in new starters at nearly every position. The most permanent change they made was drafting Spencer Fano at ninth overall to be their franchise left tackle. On the opposite end, they acquired Tytus Howard to start at right tackle, where he's historically struggled.
Trevor Goosby is a much better long-term option. Playing with great strength and length, he's able to hold more than his own in pass protection. He can also move defenders at will in the run game, making him a premier prospect in next year's class. Look for him to keep Arch Manning well protected for another season.
New Las Vegas Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak saw what having a dominant secondary can do for a defense. Last year in Seattle, he saw the unit play in a way that elevated the team to a Super Bowl ring.
Leonard Moore is easily the most talented cornerback in this class, utilizing his elite man coverage skills, size, and length to lock down opposing receivers right when the play starts. He's everything front offices look for in a modern cornerback, and he's a top-five talent in the class.
It's time for a quarterback reset in Atlanta. Michael Penix Jr. hasn't shown the skills or availability to be a franchise guy, and Tua Tagovailoa will likely be a journeyman from this year out.
We've seen quarterbacks like Cam Ward and Carson Beck have success after transferring to Miami, and with Mensah's talent, he could be a big riser. He reads the field well and throws with quality anticipation, arguably better than any current Falcons quarterback.
The Tennessee Titans just missed out on top edge prospect David Bailey in the 2026 draft to pair with Jermaine Johnson II. While they do have Jacob Martin in the rotation, there's no doubt head coach Robert Saleh would like to add more juice at the position.
Dylan Stewart may have the highest ceiling of any edge rusher in the draft, standing at 6'5 and 250 pounds. He has a similar explosive first step to Colin Simmons, though his speed-to-power may be even more impressive. If developed correctly, Stewart could turn into a perennial Pro Bowler.
While the Tetairoa McMillan experience has been exhilarating through one season, the Xavier Legette experience has been anything but. Jalen Coker, a nice rotational player, has surpassed Legette, though they still need a better option to pair with McMillan.
Cam Coleman has supreme vertical ability, helping him dominate smaller corners. He's the type of receiver Bryce Young thrives with, as his strength is letting his guys go up and catch the ball. Teaming Coleman with McMillan could give Carolina one of the best young receiver duos in the league.
The New Orleans Saints have had a middling pass rush for a while now. Carl Granderson and Chase Young can be above-average starters, but they've been missing a player who can completely blow up the offense's plans.
Colin Simmons, who had an 86.9 CFB EDGE Impact Score in 2025, can do that and more. His 21 sacks and 29.5 tackles for loss over the last two years against top competition say everything. Adding Simmons to Granderson and Young will help New Orleans become a real force in the NFC South, alongside a budding offense.
Trading Dexter Lawrence II hurts, but it was a necessary loss. He's not getting any younger, and to receive the No. 10 overall pick for him in last year's draft is a huge win, especially since Lawrence didn't fit into John Harbaugh's long-term plans.
For someone who weighs 315 pounds, David Stone has a highly impressive first step, helping him penetrate gaps before interior offensive linemen can even react. His run-stuffing ability is quite polished, which would help greatly replace Lawrence's presence in that area.
Plainly, the cornerback room in Washington is lacking talent. Trey Amos was good as a rookie, though Mike Sainristil played better in the slot his rookie year than he did outside last year. Amik Robertson and Rasul Douglas are nice veteran depth pieces, but they shouldn't be a part of Washington's future.
Ellis Robinson IV showcased elite ball skills last year, culminating in four interceptions and seven pass breakups. His fluid hips help him change direction seamlessly and run with almost any receiver he's matched up with. These skills should make him a starter for years to come.
After dealing defensive superstars Sauce Gardner and Quinnen Williams, the Jets have opportunities to more broadly upgrade their team, though holes at cornerback and defensive tackle persist. Here, they take care of the corner issue with Tuscaloosa product Zabien Brown.
He's another excellent man coverage corner who does a great job of reading the quarterback. Brown's more than adept at taking the ball away, as seen in his two pick-sixes in 2025. He's exactly what Aaron Glenn and the Jets need to improve an older and depleted cornerback room.
This may seem a bit high for a running back, but the Minnesota Vikings badly need to upgrade their backfield. Aaron Jones Sr. has had a great career, but has no business being a notable part of an offense at this stage. Jordan Mason didn't play well last year and doesn't have RB1 upside.
Jadan Baugh does. He's nearly impossible to bring down due to his contact balance, and he's rarely brought down on the first tackle attempt. Though he is a bigger back at 230 pounds, he has the burst to sneak between linebackers and produce big gains. Don't be surprised if he's the first of his position off the board come April.
After getting rid of Minkah Fitzpatrick, there's been an element of playmaking missing from the Pittsburgh Steelers' defense. Additionally, with expensive contracts across the defensive backfield, not counting Joey Porter Jr.'s massive looming deal, it makes sense to get a guaranteed upgrade for at least the next four years.
KJ Bolden has incredible range and versatility to make him a weapon for defensive coordinator Patrick Graham. Whether at deep safety, in the slot, or close to the line of scrimmage, Bolden is a certified difference-maker.
After taking their Gardner replacement, Will Echoles is next up, and they badly need him. T'Vondre Sweat is a quality nose tackle option who's a great fit for their future. Next to him is Harrison Phillips, who's been a quality player overall, though he doesn't fit Glenn's timeline at 30 years old.
Though Echoles' run defense is his main calling card, he has significant pass-rushing upside. In 2025, he notched five sacks thanks to his relentless motor and initial quickness off the snap. Pairing Echoles with Sweat would massively improve the Jets' run defense.
The Chicago Bears' cornerback group is not only thin, but very fragile. Jaylon Johnson is one of the league's best when healthy, but both outside corner Tyrique Stevenson and slot Kyler Gordon are often injured. With that, it's time to find an upgrade who can stay on the field.
Ashton Hampton has the perfect blend of size and speed to compete at the next level, with the press-man ability to stop a receiver in the midst of their release. On top of that, he's a willing tackler who has top-notch mental toughness, which is highly necessary for playing one of the hardest positions on the field.
Regardless of the investments the Cincinnati Bengals make in their offensive line, nothing seems to be enough. Their interior specifically could use upgrades across the board.
Carter Smith is regarded as one of the top blocking prospects in the draft, boasting an NFL-ready frame at 6'5 and 313 pounds. Proficient in both pass and run blocking, he was one of the biggest reasons Fernando Mendoza stayed protected during their national championship run.
The Jacksonville Jaguars were a top defense when it came to stuffing the run last season, helping lead to their 13-4 record and AFC South title. However, it's time to inject some youth into the defensive line.
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For a 325-pound defender, A'Mauri Washington exhibits an extremely explosive first step, allowing him to get his movements started before opposing guards are set. His excellent run defense will be highly sought after by defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile.
In this scenario, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers select a second straight Miami defensive lineman in the first round. It's unclear how long Vita Vea will stay in Tampa Bay after a one-year extension. Additionally, Vea could use better help next to him, as Calijah Kancey has struggled to stay healthy while A'Shawn Robinson and Rakeem Nunez-Roches won't provide much support.
Ahmad Moten Sr.'s violent hands and interior pass-rush ability make him an easy pick at this range. If he goes here, Tampa Bay will be set for years to come at the defensive line.
Denver has one of the best defenses in the league, including a great defensive back group, though it could use an upgrade at free safety to replace Brandon Jones.
Tae Johnson could easily go much earlier than No. 20, as his ball skills and instincts are rare. He has the ideal length for the position and has the closing speed to cover large parts of the field. Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph would welcome this addition.
Outside of Nico Collins, it's hard to say that the Houston Texans have any threat that keeps opposing defensive coaches up at night, even after acquiring Kayshon Boutte. Jayden Higgins' injury puts his future up in the air, while Tank Dell and Xavier Hutchinson have questionable futures with the team.
Charlie Becker has an archetype similar to Alec Pierce, standing tall at 6-foot-4 with deep speed that forces defenses to account for him. He came on strong late last season for the Hoosiers, with clutch production that helped them win a national championship.
The second cornerback spot was a big issue for the Eagles in 2025. To solve this, they signed Riq Woolen from Seattle, though it could be very expensive to retain him if he plays as well as Philadelphia hopes.
Kelley Jones is one of the most intriguing prospects due to his length at 6-foot-4, which helped him break up 11 passes and add 2 interceptions. He thrives in press-man and has good speed for his size.
Aidan Hutchinson is an incredible piece, but Detroit is mistaken if they think that he's all the edge help they need. Outside of Hutchinson, they've struggled to generate pressure, and current starter DJ Wonnum is unlikely to be Hutchinson's long-term partner on the other side.
Yhonzae Pierre racked up 8 sacks and 14.5 tackles for loss in 2025, proving himself as one of the most impactful edge defenders in the SEC. His exceptional flexibility and edge-bend ability give him notable NFL upside.
Not many holes exist on the Los Angeles Chargers' defense, though they could stand to get younger in some spots. This includes replacing middle linebacker Denzel Perryman, who's been a team leader for years dating back to the franchise's days in San Diego.
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Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa has the range and versatility needed for a modern NFL linebacker, with experience playing off-ball, rushing the passer, and even covering receivers occasionally.
On paper, the New England Patriots' cornerback group is set. Christian Gonzalez is elite and only getting better; they found a quality slot guy in Marcus Jones, and they have a solid No. 2 option on the outside in Carlton Davis III. Unfortunately, Davis isn't getting any younger at 29, and the depth behind him is lacking.
Drafting Vicari Swain gives New England a long-term partner across from Gonzalez, and one who's much less expensive. Swain has similar press-man ability that Gonzalez showed at Oregon, alongside the track-like long speed.
Having a successful run game has been key for Kyle Shanahan's offenses, though the interior could use a boost, even though they drafted Carver Willis in the fourth round in 2025.
Greg Johnson has the ideal, massive frame at 6-foot-6 and 325 pounds that NFL scouts look for. He's an NFL-ready pass protector, using his lower-body strength to anchor himself. He also possesses above-average football IQ, which will help his development in 2027.
Head coach Brian Schottenheimer already admitted that the Cowboys have a problem at right tackle, and that they expect more from starter Terence Steele. Truth be told, Steele's best days could be behind him at 29, so it's time they get a younger, better option.
Jordan Seaton falls right into the Cowboys' lap here. He's displayed exceptional athleticism for his size, and he has the ability to mirror much faster and lighter edge rushers. He could improve on his balance, though he has a well-rounded game.
Offensive line play always used to be an advantage for the Kansas City Chiefs, but those days are long gone. For years now, they've struggled to get consistent play from both tackle spots, and with undrafted free agent Kahlil Benson set to start on the right side, Kansas City could easily want to invest more in the position come draft season.
Trevor Lauck has major upside after allowing zero sacks last season. As is the case with most Iowa offensive linemen, Lauck has punishing physicality, though he also has the complementary agility to pull and get to the second level.
Losing Tyler Linderbaum in free agency hurt. It also hurt losing Danny Pinter, who was set to start in his place, to a torn patellar tendon. It's unlikely Pinter returns this season.
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Iapani Laloulu isn't the tallest guy, which some say gives him an advantage when it comes to anchoring his body against taller competition. His initial punch jolts defenders, giving Laloulu the space to impose his will as long as he needs to.
Turns out, having the best defensive line in the NFL can win you the Super Bowl. While most of the pieces from their deep run have stayed, none are getting younger. That includes Jarran Reed, who at 33 years old may not be in the league much longer.
Justin Scott has an explosive get-off, firing off the ball quite well for someone weighing 303 pounds. Additionally, due to his length at 6-foot-4, he's able to play from multiple internal alignments. Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald would not have any issues finding a spot for him.
Since Stefon Diggs' departure, the Buffalo Bills have yet to find a true No. 1 receiver. While they did trade for DJ Moore this offseason, it's unclear how much longer his prime will last. Outside of Moore, Buffalo could definitely use a talent infusion at receiver.
Nick Marsh enters Indiana from Michigan State, where he let his excellent build at 6-foot-3 and 213 pounds do the talking. His vertical ability and downfield speed were mostly unmatched in the Big Ten, as were his separation skills. He was easily the brightest spot on the Spartans' roster in 2025.
It's unclear if Drew Mestemaker will throw his hat in the ring for the 2027 NFL Draft, but if he does, he could easily go higher than this. He followed his head coach to Oklahoma State from North Texas, where he threw for 4,300+ yards and 34 touchdowns, thanks to his quick release and top-of-the-line intermediate accuracy.
Regardless of how good the current Browns signal callers look, it'll be hard to pass up a top quarterback prospect like Mestemaker if he's around this range.
This article originally appeared on Pro Football Network .
