2027 NFL Mock Draft Projects Early Fixes for Dolphins and Chargers

With the 2026 NFL season not quite halfway through, early projections for the 2027 NFL Draft are already taking shape. Analyst Rob Rang released his latest first-round 2027 NFL mock draft in a FOX Sports article on November 5, 2026, outlining how struggling franchises might address critical roster holes next offseason.

Miami's Quarterback Dilemma

At least eight of the 32 NFL teams currently do not have their starting quarterback in place for 2027. The Miami Dolphins find themselves prominently featured in the speculative draft order as they search for stability under center.

Miami acquired Malik Willis as a costly free-agent addition, but the move has yielded limited results. Through the first two months of the season, Willis has thrown just five touchdowns against six interceptions. According to the projection, the Dolphins are currently positioned to land Drew Mestemaker.

Mestemaker is projected as the first quarterback selected in the first round of the 2027 NFL Draft. His perceived upside could lead to teams bidding against each other for his services.

Chargers Target Pass-Catching Help

The Los Angeles Chargers are another franchise positioned high in the early draft order due to severe offensive limitations. Through seven games in the 2026 season, the Chargers have scored a total of just nine touchdowns.

To remedy this lack of production, Jeremiah Smith is projected as a pass-catcher for Los Angeles. Selecting a wide receiver at the very top of the draft remains a rarity in the NFL; the last wide receiver taken No. 1 overall was Keyshawn Johnson in 1996.

Defensive Prospects and NIL Impact

Beyond the offensive side of the ball, explosive edge rusher Colin Simmons is identified as a premier talent in the draft class. Defensive needs across the league continue to shift as veterans change teams, illustrated by defensive lineman Jeffery Simmons now playing in Chicago.

However, the exact makeup of the 2027 draft class remains uncertain. Some players and quarterbacks currently featured in the mock draft may choose to return to school rather than make the jump to the NFL, driven by lucrative college football NIL opportunities.

Looking Ahead

Because the 2026 season is ongoing, first-round draft projections and the mock draft order based on current standings are highly speculative. These positions are subject to change as the 32 teams complete the remainder of their schedules.