Three teams are in realistic position to get the first overall pick in the 2027 NFL Draft: the Chargers, Dolphins, Titans, and Jets (via the Colts).
The Chargers stand as the lone winless team, sitting at 0-7 in one of the most competitive divisions in the NFL. If they end up with the first pick, they likely trade back to gain more draft capital or select generational talent Jeremiah Smith to finally give Justin Herbert the weapon he deserves. Questions will also arise about Jim Harbaugh’s future and whether the Chargers can move on from him.
Next up are the Titans, who nearly pulled off an upset against the Bengals in overtime last week. Cam Ward had his best game of the season, throwing for 304 yards and two touchdowns while leading Tennessee with 36 points. Despite Ward’s struggles this season, it seems unlikely the organization will give up on him early in his career. The Titans are clearly entering a full rebuild after trading star defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons and getting an additional first-round pick. With the team focused on rebuilding, Tennessee could use that pick to find its next defensive star, with prospects like Colin Simmons, Dylan Stewart, or Leonard Moore as potential options. Alternatively, the Titans could give Ward another weapon by selecting wide receiver Jeremiah Smith with the first overall pick.
Last is the Dolphins, who probably have the biggest need for a quarterback of these three teams. Two potential options are Darian Mensah from Miami and Drew Mestemaker from Oklahoma State. Mensah threw for 25 touchdowns and just one interception, leading Miami to the No. 1 in the nation and became the Heisman Trophy favorite. As for Mestemaker, he shows flashes of Josh Allen in his arm strength, accuracy, and playmaking ability. At 6-foot-3 and 215 pounds, he also has an impressive frame. Oklahoma State is 5-3 but is averaging 41.1 points per game, the third-highest mark in the nation behind North Texas and Miami. As the most explosive part of that high powered offense, Mestemaker threw for 2600 yards, 25 touchdowns with 7 interceptions.
For the Dolphins, both quarterbacks could be options, whether they select him first, second, or third overall. Malik Willis has yet to establish himself as the answer at quarterback and could potentially serve as a bridge quarterback for another year. However, the bigger question may be whether Miami has a strong enough supporting cast to help a rookie quarterback succeed.
My name is Harry Lewis, I am a 17 y/0 aspiring Football Journalist or analyst. I am excited to share my work and learn new things. My dms are open to X @HLewfootball.