CBS Sports analyst Mike Renner releases top 10 defensive prospects for the 2027 NFL Draft
The ranking highlights a cohort of blue-chip talent from Power Four programs, evaluated on physical attributes and 2025 season performance statistics.
CBS Sports analyst Mike Renner has released his ranking of the top 10 defensive prospects for the 2027 NFL Draft, identifying a group of players who are expected to heavily influence the upcoming draft order. The analysis suggests that the top three selections on this list could factor significantly into the top five picks next spring, driven by their demonstrated performance on tape.
USC sophomore Leonard Moore is selected as the number one prospect, described as a potential all-time caliber cornerback. Renner notes Moore's ability to exert a vice grip on elite receivers, citing a specific matchup where he effectively removed Biletnikoff Award winner Makai Lemon from the progression. The analyst highlights the long, rangy corner's special press-man ability as a defining characteristic of his elite status.
Dylan Stewart and Colin Simmons occupy the second and third positions respectively, both listed as edge rushers. Stewart is characterised by freakish athleticism, described as a 6-foot-5, 245-pounder who knifes into backfields with the agility of a slot cornerback, though his development as a polished pass rusher is still underway. Simmons is noted as a tuned-up edge rusher with the ideal body type for a modern defender, possessing long arms despite standing just 6-foot-3.
The list features a mix of edge rushers, defensive tackles, and safeties drawn from various college programs, with several players noted for their 2025 season statistics. David Stone is included for his all-around game and strength against the run, having recorded 22 run stops last season, the third most among returning Power Four defensive tackles. He is noted to not turn 21 until November.
Further down the rankings, A'Mauri Washington is highlighted as a tailor-made athlete for the modern nose tackle role, possessing rare explosiveness at 6-foot-3 and 330 pounds. Kelley Jones, a massive corner from Mississippi State, is recognised for allowing just 11 catches across 375 coverage snaps, achieving the best completion rate allowed in the nation.
Will Echoles from Ole Miss is noted for his 3-technique athleticism and durability, having played 765 snaps during the 2025 season. He recorded 28 run stops and 39 pressures, while Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa is identified as a hybrid linebacker prospect whose status for 2026 remains uncertain following an ACL tear in November.
Zach Lutmer, Ty Benefield, and others round out the top 10, with Benefield noted for his range and experience as a safety transferring to LSU. The rankings incorporate physical attributes and performance statistics from the 2025 season to project value, though Renner cautions that player development and injury status between now and the 2027 draft could significantly alter prospect value.
