2027 NFL mock draft: Arch Manning, Jeremiah Smith lead early top 10

NFL teams are still assessing this year’s rookie class, but scouts and front offices are already turning their attention to the 2027 crop. Early scouting buzz calls this group loaded with high-ceiling talent at quarterback and multiple impact skill positions — the kind of class that can reshape draft boards and franchise timelines.

Projecting an order this far ahead is speculative, but useful for identifying players likely to climb as college seasons unfold. Below is a forward-looking, SEO-focused rundown of the prospects drawing the most attention and a projected top-10 that blends tape, traits and team fits.

Projected Top 10 Picks in the 2027 NFL Draft: early order and why

1. Arizona Cardinals — Arch Manning, QB (Texas)

   Despite an uneven start in his first full year as a starter, Manning closed the season showing why his pedigree matters. NFL evaluators love the combination of arm talent, field vision and a high ceiling. If he keeps trending upward, Manning is the safe bet to be the top signal-caller in this class.

2. Miami Dolphins — Drew Mestemaker, QB (Oklahoma State)

   A former walk-on who broke out in the AAC, Mestemaker carried elite statistical production into the spotlight. Now in the Big 12 with more weapons around him, he’s expected to answer tougher tests and prove his precise downfield placement can translate at the next level.

3. Las Vegas Raiders — Jeremiah Smith, WR (Ohio State)

   Smith profiles as a true difference-maker at receiver: rare size-speed balance, explosive contested-catch ability and sensational body control. If he and emerging targets like Fernando Mendoza develop chemistry nearby, that offense becomes a legitimate matchup nightmare.

4. Cleveland Browns — Dante Moore, QB (Oregon)

   Moore opted to return to college after a statement season that included more than 30 touchdown passes and roughly 3,500 yards through the air. His athleticism and arm dynamics have drawn high-profile comparisons — he’s a prototypical dual-threat passer who could rise into the top five with another polished campaign.

5. New York Jets — Leonard Moore, CB (Notre Dame)

   Stuck outside elite quarterback territory in this projection, the Jets pivot to defense and grab a cornerback with zone instincts and proven production. Moore has been a consistent playmaker in coverage, breaking up multiple passes each season and forcing turnovers — traits teams covet opposite an established boundary corner.

6. Tennessee Titans — Jordan Seaton, OT (LSU)

   Seaton’s footwork and anchor make him the top tackle on many boards entering next year. As he plays under Lane Kiffin’s offense at LSU, his movement and pass-pro chops should get sharper — an attractive fit for a Titans line that could be open for reinforcements on the blindside.

7. Atlanta Falcons — Dylan Stewart, EDGE (South Carolina)

   Stewart blends explosive first-step speed with power at the point of attack, the kind of edge traits Atlanta covets. He’ll need to boost his statistical production, but his physical profile suggests a player capable of living in the top-10 conversation.

8. New York Giants — Will Echoles, DT (Ole Miss)

   Echoles brings a violent bull rush and stout run defense that could help replace a veteran interior presence. His ability to collapse the pocket and anchor against blockers would be an instant upgrade for a Giants front that needs options in the middle of the defensive line.

9. Washington Commanders — Colin Simmons, EDGE (Texas)

   Simmons has been a production machine on the edge with a toolkit suited to modern defensive schemes. He’s compact, technically sound and plays with urgency — characteristics that mesh well with a coaching staff that prizes speed and schematic versatility.

10. Minnesota Vikings — Tae Johnson, S (Notre Dame)

    The Vikings’ secondary showed vulnerabilities last season, and Johnson projects as a multi-phase safety who covers a lot of ground in zone and supports the run. He has the instincts and coverage range to become a centerfield presence in a defensive backfield that needs a reliable playmaker.

Quarterbacks to monitor: how the signal-callers compare and what scouts want to see

• Arch Manning — Upside-driven evaluation. Scouts will be watching his consistency and decision-making as much as raw arm talent.
• Drew Mestemaker — Efficiency and timing are his calling cards; the key question is how his accuracy and anticipation hold up against Big 12 speed and pressure.
• Dante Moore — A dual-threat prospect who must refine pre-snap reads and reduce turnovers to cement first-round status.

Offensive difference-makers who could lift a franchise immediately

Teams often target premium offensive playmakers early when the talent stands out. Here are the skill players in this projection likely to be game-changers.

• Jeremiah Smith, WR — A rare physical specimen with contested-catch dominance and separation ability at multiple levels.
• Jordan Seaton, OT — Protects the quarterback and opens lanes in the run game; tackles with quick feet and a heavy punch.
• Supporting weapons — Look for tight ends and slot receivers emerging around these headliners who could push teams to trade up for complementary pieces.

Defensive prospects who project as frontline playmakers

Defenses will hunt for disruptive forces to flip momentum. This group combines interior power with edge speed and savvy coverage ability.

• Dylan Stewart, EDGE — His speed-to-power conversion is a natural fit in pass-first packages and offers upside as a downfield threat.
• Colin Simmons, EDGE — Consistent production and effort; projects as a high-motor rusher who can pressure quarterbacks on all downs.
• Will Echoles, DT — A stout inside presence who can win one-on-one battles and free up linebackers to make plays.
• Tae Johnson, S — Versatile safety with centerfield range, capable of covering tight ends and supporting run defense.

What matters most for teams scouting the 2027 class

By next season, evaluation will split between measurable traits and how prospects perform against stronger competition. Key factors scouts will prioritize include:

• Consistency under pressure: Can quarterbacks and receivers deliver when facing elite defensive fronts?
• Scheme fit: Do pass rushers have the versatility to play multiple roles in hybrid defenses?
• Intangibles: Leadership, decision-making and film study habits that suggest NFL readiness.
• Health and workload: Durability matters — sustained performance across a full college season will shift boards quickly.

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John Davis

John Davis is a sports journalist focused on the NBA, NFL, and major global championships. With seven years of live coverage, he breaks down performances and key strategies. His expertise gives you a clear view of every game and its impact.