One position the Cleveland Browns might prioritize in next April’s draft, outside of quarterback, is EDGE. They have Jared Verse, but Isaiah McGuire is in the final year of his deal, and Alex Wright is coming off an injury, so they may look for another impact player to maintain depth and disruption down the road. Here are my updated, way-too-early top 5 EDGE rankings for the 2027 NFL Draft.
5. Princewill Umanmielen, LSU
Princewill Umanmielen with sack No. 8 on the season.
— Underdog CFB (@UnderdogCFB) October 4, 2026
That puts him ahead of Colin Simmons as the FBS sack leader. pic.twitter.com/qbwv1qUc62
Umanmielen is likely just a designated pass rusher at the next level because of his struggles in the run game, but he is such a good pass rusher that he is worth taking high because of how disruptive he is to an opposing
passing game. He’s incredibly explosive; his first step and athleticism are among the best in his class, and he gets in the backfield in a hurry. He has a solid pass rush plan, and his ability to change direction and confuse tackles is impressive.
4. Clev Lubin, Louisville
Huge game from Clev Lubin. Mostly matched up with PJ Williams who had no answer for his bull rush or inside moves pic.twitter.com/ZAEChAfRJL
— James Foster (@NoFlagsFilm) September 20, 2026
Another player with a quick first step. Lubin can surprise offensive tackles with his get-off, given how big he is. He has a solid bag of pass rush moves, and though he doesn’t have elite length, he understands how to maximize it and play with great leverage. Lubin always keeps his hands moving and makes sure to bring the fight to the offensive lineman.
3. Yhonzae Pierre, Alabama
Pierre is a strong, tough, tone-setter in the run game, and it shows up on his tape with how violent and active his hands are when setting the edge or rushing with power. He’s made strides this year to develop a more diverse pass rush plan, but outside of his bull rush, he still needs work; man, does he have a nasty and effective bull rush paired with an impressive get-off and overall explosiveness and movement skills.
2. Dylan Stewart, South Carolina
When you watch Dylan Stewart move and play, you see a player who, though he isn’t a finished product he has rare physical traits and the upside to be a truly special player at the next level. The length, twitch, and lower body flexibility are something special to see. He’s already a disruptive force, but if he develops and adds some lower-body power, he will play in the NFL for a long time.
1. Colin Simmons, Texas
Colin Simmons may have just SOLIDIFIED his position as DE1 in the 2027 NFL Draft.
— Rookie Watch (@RookieWatxh) September 26, 2026
Against TENN: 8 total pressures, 5 SACKS, 5 TFL’s, 1 FF, and 8 total tackles.
The Texas DE is going to be an absolute NIGHTMARE for NFL offensive lines 🤯🔥 pic.twitter.com/SanRP69WzZ
Colin Simmons is by far the most polished pass rusher in this year’s class coming into the season and only continues to show that throughout the season so far. He has a deep bag of pass rush moves and can beat linemen in a variety of ways and keeps them guessing. Simmons has a great get-off and flexibility that he mixes with a high motor that coaches are going to love.
This article originally appeared on Browns Wire: Way-Too-Early EDGE Rankings for the 2027 NFL Draft
