College Football Players Making Waves Ahead of the 2027 NFL Draft
Three weeks into the college football season, the landscape for the 2027 NFL Draft is starting to take shape. While some players entered the season with first-round expectations, others are making a case to be included in the conversation. This week’s NFL Draft Stock Risers feature college football players whose performances have prompted NFL evaluators to reconsider their draft boards and take a closer look.
One standout performance came from Trinidad Chambliss, the Ole Miss quarterback, who faced off against No. 7 LSU. Chambliss threw for 363 yards and two touchdowns while also rushing for a decisive 14-yard touchdown, leading the Rebels to a 32-24 victory. His ability to perform under pressure against a formidable SEC defense has made him a legitimate candidate for the upcoming draft. Through three games, he has amassed 924 passing yards and seven touchdowns, showcasing his mobility and toughness. Despite lingering questions about his age and NFL projection, performances like this make it increasingly difficult for scouts to overlook him.
Another quarterback making headlines is Darian Mensah from Miami, who had an impressive outing against Wake Forest. Mensah completed 30 of 34 passes for 220 yards and three touchdowns, setting an ACC record for consecutive completions with 24. His accuracy and ability to protect the football have strengthened his case as a top quarterback prospect for the 2027 draft. NFL teams are keen on quarterbacks who can demonstrate ball placement and anticipation, and Mensah’s performance certainly caught their attention.
West Virginia's Hawkins also had a remarkable game, accounting for 313 yards and five touchdowns in a victory over No. 25 Virginia. His dual-threat capability was on full display as he rushed for 123 yards and three scores, proving his athleticism can be a game-changer. While he still needs to refine his passing skills, his performance against a ranked opponent has put him firmly on the NFL Draft radar.
Florida State's Robinson showcased his potential as an NFL receiver despite his team’s loss to Alabama. He recorded six receptions for 135 yards and a touchdown, marking his sixth career game with over 100 receiving yards. His combination of size and athleticism makes him an intriguing prospect, and performances like this provide scouts with evidence of his ability to compete at a high level.
Kentucky's Minchey also made a statement by throwing for 252 yards and two touchdowns against Texas A&M, leading his team to a stunning 31-21 victory. Winning in a challenging environment like Kyle Field is crucial for quarterback evaluations, and Minchey’s performance adds to his growing resume as a prospect worth monitoring.
BYU's Martin had a standout game against Colorado State, rushing for 176 yards and three touchdowns on just 15 carries. His explosive running style and ability to create big plays are traits that NFL teams value highly in running backs. Martin's performance solidifies his position as one of the more intriguing running back prospects in this draft cycle.
Brown from Louisville also turned heads with a career-high 163 rushing yards and two touchdowns against SMU, demonstrating his home-run ability. His efficiency and speed are qualities that NFL scouts look for, and he certainly made a case for himself in this nationally relevant matchup.
Texas A&M's Craver established a career high with 11 receptions for 119 yards, proving he can be a reliable target even when defenses focus on him. His ability to produce volume is a valuable skill for NFL receivers, and his performance did not go unnoticed.
The View from the Cheap Seats
Lastly, Green, a tight end, showcased his potential with four receptions for 60 yards against Ole Miss before leaving the game with an injury. His size and athleticism create matchup problems for defenses, making him a prospect to watch as he continues to develop.
As the college football season unfolds, these players are not just making headlines; they are solidifying their positions as serious contenders for the 2027 NFL Draft. With each passing week, their performances provide NFL scouts with more reasons to keep a close eye on their progress.
