The “Hybrid Revolution” is upon us.Thanks to Mike Macdonald, Nick Emmanwori and the reigning Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks, we can expect speed in space to become a regular thing defensively across the league — at least in the smartest pockets of the NFL, if nowhere else.If more teams find themselves in the market for defenders who can wear multiple hats at multiple levels, the 2027 (and possibly 2028) NFL Draft class probably won’t disappoint. Some of the most dynamic underclassmen college football has to offer this year come in big, fast and versatile sizes and shapes.Here’s a look through some of the most intriguing ’27 draft-eligible underclassmen on defense:Is Indiana a football school? Is Michigan a basketball school? Not quiteJoe RexrodeEdgeColin Simmons, Texas
Dylan Stewart, South CarolinaCompact and explosive, Simmons (6 feet 3 inches tall, 255 pounds) is absolute hell on wheels off the edge. He has produced more than 100 pressures in just two seasons of college ball and has continually bulked himself up after arriving as a 225-pound freshman. Simmons has terrific length (despite barely being 6-3), along with excellent bend and sink — a truly terrifying blend for offensive tackles.He could be more consistent against the run, but Simmons’ full three-down impact should only strengthen with continued weight gain. He’s a potential top-10 player in the 2027 class.Colin Simmons backfield disruptionNick BaumgardnerStewart (6-5, 245) has plenty of mutant-level traits himself. A long, explosive and twitched-up defender, Stewart was actually a gigantic (and effective) stack linebacker for stretches in high school. He’s lightning quick off the corner, can stop on a dime and find the ball from just about anywhere. His first step is outstanding, as are his cornering skills.He’s still a bit lean, however. His natural burst generates plenty of power, but his frame should be able to deliver even more. Added strength should level out Stewart’s pressure rate and help him finish more in the backfield. If that all happens, Stewart could join the the top-10 conversation, too.Another junior edge to watch: Alabama’s Yhonzae Pierre (6-3, 244), who had 45 pressures as a first-year starter last season.Defensive TackleDavid Stone, Oklahoma
