2027 NFL Draft Outlook: Arch Manning Tops Mock Picks as Notre Dame Stars Rise

The 2027 NFL Draft is shaping up as one of the most anticipated drafts in recent memory, driven by a deep quarterback class led by Arch Manning, who is projected as the No. 1 overall pick in most early mock drafts. Team strategies are already taking shape; the Miami Dolphins, after experimenting with free‑agent quarterback Malik Willis, could use the top selection to secure Manning, while the Arizona Cardinals, having cut Kyler Murray, are eyeing quarterback Dante Moore as a potential franchise player.

College talent, particularly from Notre Dame, is also expected to make a strong impact. Analysts suggest that junior quarterback CJ Carr could break into the early first round if he continues to improve, and several Irish defensive prospects—including cornerback Christian Gray, defensive lineman Boubacar Traore, safety Tae Johnson, and linebacker Kyngstonn Viliamu‑Asa—are projected as Day‑2 or even first‑round selections based on recent performances and NFL scouting reports. The convergence of elite quarterback prospects and a robust pool of collegiate talent has set the stage for a highly competitive draft class.

Overall, mock drafts released by outlets such as Tankathon reflect these expectations, highlighting both franchise‑changing quarterbacks and a slate of Notre Dame players poised to influence the 2027 draft outcomes.