NFL Trade Rumors
Following the release of my first top 50 big board for the 2027 draft cycle on Monday, it’s time for another way-too-early mock draft. We’ve had a few shakeups since my first back in May: with Myles Garrett now in Los Angeles with the Rams, the Browns have an extra pick. I’ve also done a fair bit more scouting since then, and have some new names in interesting landing spots to bring to your attention.
As per usual with these way-too-early mocks, try not to get too hung up on specific prospect-to-team fits. It’s difficult to project team needs a year out, so aside from quarterbacks, I didn’t prioritize fit over getting the right names in the mock.
Another year, another mock draft projecting Manning to go first overall. His early impressions on college football fans last season weren’t great, but he looked much-improved by the end of the season. If he takes another step forward, it’ll be tough for teams to overlook his production, arm talent and athleticism (not to mention his pedigree).
Mensah is still my favorite quarterback in this class. I just loved his tape. His pocket presence is top-notch and he combines it with a laser arm that can effortlessly hit opposite-sideline or deep-hash throws. Week after week, Mensah was dicing up ACC defenses with throws straight out of NFL offenses.
Yes, the Jets need a quarterback. But they have three first-round selections, and Smith can’t fall much further than this. He’s already considered a prospect on par with the best receivers to come through the draft in recent memory like Ja’Marr Chase and Marvin Harrison Jr. — and he can get even better this season. With his combination of size, fluid movement, and ball skills, he’s a nearly impossible cover.
In a summer quarterback battle between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders, the Browns might be learning they don’t really have a quarterback they can rely on. Moore was a college football standout last season, passing up a high chance to be the No. 2 pick to instead return to college and get even better. With better pocket presence, he could challenge for the No. 1 overall selection even in a stronger class.
Moore has a case as the best prospect in this class entering the season. He’s battle-tested against college football’s best receivers over the last two seasons — including Smith, whom he fought to a draw in the national championship game two seasons ago. His fluidity in space and length at the catch point allows him to stay sticky and break up passes consistently.
Speed and power make for a great combination at most positions,...
