Iowa's Kade Pieper Cracks Top 50 in Early 2027 NFL Draft Big Board
The 2027 NFL Draft is still a year away, but the first big board of the season is already turning heads. Iowa offensive lineman Kade Pieper landed at No. 49 on a prominent analyst's initial top 50 list, giving Hawkeye fans another reason to watch the trenches this fall.
The ranking comes from Daniel Rios, whose preseason scouting breakdown highlights a deep class of defensive tackles, edge rushers, and playmaking receivers. For Iowa, the big news is Pieper's inclusion as one of the top interior offensive line prospects in the country.
What makes Kade Pieper a top 50 NFL prospect?
Pieper, who plays offensive line for the Hawkeyes, is praised for his fluid movement and agility at the position. The scouting report notes he moves tremendously for his size and has the range to operate effectively in a zone scheme. His hands and quickness stand out, though the report suggests he needs to add power and improve his anchoring at the next level.
Iowa has a well-known tradition of producing NFL-ready offensive linemen, and Pieper appears to be the next in that line. His inclusion on this list reinforces the Hawkeyes' reputation as a pipeline for pro-caliber blockers.
Who tops the 2027 NFL Draft big board?
At No. 1, Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith leads the class. The 6-foot-3, 223-pound playmaker has dominated college football since his freshman year. Notre Dame cornerback Leonard Moore comes in at No. 2, followed by South Carolina edge rusher Dylan Stewart at No. 3.
The top 10 also features Texas wide receiver Cam Coleman, Oklahoma defensive tackle David Stone, Texas edge Colin Simmons, and two quarterbacks: Texas's Arch Manning at No. 7 and Oregon's Dante Moore at No. 8. LSU tackle Jordan Seaton and Florida running back Jadan Baugh round out the top 10.
How does this impact Iowa football fans?
For Iowa fans, Pieper's ranking is a point of pride and a signal of continued success in developing offensive line talent. It also gives the Hawkeyes a player to watch as the 2026 season unfolds, with potential first-round implications for the program's recruiting reputation.
The full big board includes several other Big Ten standouts, including Minnesota guard Greg Johnson at No. 27, Ohio State guard Austin Siereveld at No. 33, and Indiana players Charlie Becker and Nick Marsh at Nos. 34 and 36. Pieper is the only Iowa player on the list.
What should fans expect from the 2027 draft class?
This early ranking suggests a class loaded with defensive talent, especially at defensive tackle and edge rusher. Five defensive tackles appear in the top 20, including Oklahoma's David Stone, Oregon's A'Mauri Washington, Miami's Ahmad Moten and Justin Scott, and Ole Miss's Will Echoles.
The quarterback group is also intriguing, with Arch Manning, Dante Moore, and Oklahoma State's Drew Mestemaker all earning top 25 spots. For Iowa, the focus will remain on the offensive line, where Pieper has a chance to climb the board with a strong season.
Frequently asked questions about the 2027 NFL Draft
Who is the top prospect for the 2027 NFL Draft?
Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith is ranked No. 1 on the initial big board, praised for his size, athleticism, and production since his freshman year.
Is Kade Pieper the only Iowa player on the list?
Yes, Kade Pieper is the only Iowa player in the top 50, coming in at No. 49 as an interior offensive lineman.
Which positions are strongest in the 2027 draft class?
Defensive tackle and edge rusher appear to be the deepest positions, with multiple players ranked in the top 20, along with a strong group of wide receivers and quarterbacks.
When is the 2027 NFL Draft?
The 2027 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 2027, with the college football season serving as the final evaluation period for prospects.