Every year, the NFL Draft brings fresh excitement, and the 2027 defensive class is already shaping up to be something special. While the offensive side of the ball might grab more headlines, this year's defensive prospects are loaded with elite talent that could dominate the top of the draft board. In fact, don't be surprised if the top three names here are among the first five picks next spring—that's just how impressive their tape looks right now. Let's break down the defensive prospects you need to know.
1. Leonard Moore, CB, USC
Watch the USC tape, and you'll see why Leonard Moore takes the top spot. How many sophomore corners in college football history can say they completely shut down a Biletnikoff Award winner? Moore did exactly that against Makai Lemon, taking him out of the game plan entirely. With long, rangy frame and elite press-man ability, Moore has the look of a potential all-time cornerback prospect. We could easily be talking about him as the best at his position to come out in years.
2. Dylan Stewart, EDGE, South Carolina
Dylan Stewart has that rare "know it when you see it" athleticism. At 6-foot-5 and 245 pounds, he moves like a slot cornerback, knifing into backfields with ease. He's still more raw talent than polished pass rusher, but that raw talent is off the charts. Once he adds just one or two consistent moves to his game, he'll be a nightmare for offenses at the next level.
3. Colin Simmons, EDGE, Texas
Colin Simmons is a finely tuned edge rusher who returns as arguably the best pass rusher in college football. Standing 6-foot-3, he might not be the tallest, but his long arms and ideal body type for a modern edge defender make him a matchup nightmare. It's hard to imagine him falling outside the top 10 next spring.
4. David Stone, DT, Oklahoma
David Stone brings the kind of versatile, all-around game that NFL scouts love. At 6-foot-3 and 315 pounds, he has the body type to line up anywhere along the defensive interior. He wins with both strength and quickness, and while his game currently shines more against the run, his pass-rush potential is clear. With 22 run stops last season—the third most among returning Power Four defensive tackles—Stone is a disruptive force who doesn't turn 21 until November. That means there's still plenty of room for growth.