Editor’s note: This is the second installment of Dane Brugler’s 2027 NFL Draft Summer Scouting series. Previous ranking: Wide receiversYou need only watch the defensive lines at Miami, Oklahoma, Ole Miss and Oregon to get a sense for the top draft-eligible defensive tackles in college football.There might not be a Jalen Carter or Mason Graham in the group — a clear and obvious top-10 pick. But the early-round potential at the position is much deeper than that of last year’s class.(Note: An asterisk represents draft-eligible underclassmen. Heights and weights are what NFL teams currently have on file for each player, per league sources.)1. Will Echoles, Ole Miss (6-2, 309)*Best traits: Active and well-rounded defenderThe lasting takeaway from Echoles’ tape was all the different ways he can impact the game. On one play, he uses both upfield and lateral quickness to penetrate the backfield. On the next, he showcases his instincts to shut down the run lane. And then on another, he shows off his upper-body strength and violent hands to shed contact and find the football.Even more encouraging is his hyperactive play style. If his effort is any indication, Echoles loves playing the run just as much as he enjoys chasing the passer. He put several highlights on his 2025 tape, but this rep against Oklahoma was my favorite:Will Echoles vs. OklahomaDane BruglerMust improve: Pass-rush countersWith his instincts and physical traits, Echoles knows how to deconstruct blocks and will his way to the football. While that works against equal or lesser competition, the next step in his development will be patching together pass-rush plans with built-in counters to find success versus any level of blocker. His talent is evident, which suggests an encouraging floor for him at the next level. But his ceiling will depend on his technical developments, specifically with his counters.2027 NFL Draft outlookThe top high school recruit in Mississippi three years ago, Echoles chose the Rebels (over Alabama, Auburn and several other SEC programs) and separated himself as the top defensive player at Ole Miss last season. Echoles’ impact consistently showed on the 2025 tape, as well as on the stat sheet — he finished with double-digit tackles for loss, plus ranked top five on the team in total tackles and second in sacks.Echoles has a natural feel for the game and uses his physical traits to put himself in position to make plays. His disruptive and diverse skill set reminds me of Derrick Harmon, the 21st pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.2. A’Mauri Washington, Oregon (6-3, 319)Best trait: Explosive powerRanked No. 4 on Bruce Feldman’s “Freaks List” last summer, Washington teases natural power and rare burst for a player his size. Consistency was an issue for him throughout last season, but Washington has the talent to gain early advantages.Gennings Dunker was a third-round pick of the Pittsburgh Steelers in April, but Washington gave him all kinds of trouble during their 2025 matchup. This clip shows Washington’s explosiveness off the ball and ability to shoot his hands and hips to immediately leverage the point of attack:A'Mauri Washington vs. IowaDane BruglerMust improve: Playing more freelyWashington is blessed with all kinds of talent. His impact last season was more sporadic than steady, however, which is not uncommon for a first-year starter learning on the fly. At times, it appeared that he was thinking too much instead of relying on his natural ability to counter and win with secondary moves. Scouts want to see him play with more freedom in year two as a starter.