Rising Stars: Evaluating the Top 27' Safeties

The Class of 2027 is shaping up to be a talented group, and the strong safety position is no exception. These rising stars bring a unique combination of physicality, football IQ, and versatility that make them standouts on the field. Whether delivering punishing tackles in the run game, covering tight ends and slot receivers in space, or serving as the defensive leader in the secondary, these safeties have shown the skills necessary to excel at the next level. As they continue to develop, their impact on the game will only grow, making them names to watch in the coming years. Let's take a closer look at the top strong safeties in the 2027 class and what makes them elite prospects.    Jackson is a hard-hitting strong safety with exceptional closing speed and instincts. He thrives in run support, reading plays quickly and attacking the ball carrier with authority. His lateral quickness allows him to cover tight ends and running backs effectively in man coverage. He possesses a high football IQ, often putting himself in the right position to make plays. With continued refinement in coverage skills, he has the potential to be an elite prospect at the next level.     Sirico stands out for his combination of size, athleticism, and tackling ability. He plays with great physicality, delivering punishing hits while maintaining solid technique. His ability to diagnose plays pre-snap gives him an edge in both pass coverage and run defense. He has shown impressive ball skills, making key interceptions and deflections when tested in coverage. As he continues to refine his footwork and reaction time, his stock will keep rising.     Cooper is an explosive playmaker with a knack for being around the football. His speed allows him to cover a lot of ground quickly, making him effective in both deep coverage and the box. He is a vocal leader on the field, directing the secondary and ensuring proper alignment. His ability to force turnovers, whether through stripping the ball or making timely interceptions, adds to his value. With his combination of versatility and aggressiveness, he is a name to watch in the 2027 class.     Jones plays with a chip on his shoulder, bringing intensity and aggression to every snap. He excels in press coverage against tight ends and larger receivers, using his strength to disrupt routes. His tackling is one of his strongest assets, as he rarely misses in open space. He has demonstrated strong anticipation skills, jumping routes and making key defensive stops. If he continues to improve his overall coverage range, he has a bright future ahead.     Ivy is a well-rounded safety who impacts both the run and pass game with equal effectiveness. He has great awareness, quickly reading quarterbacks and breaking on the ball. His ability to play in the box and contribute as an extra linebacker makes him a valuable defensive chess piece. He has solid footwork and fluid hips, allowing him to transition smoothly in coverage. With added strength and continued development, he could emerge as a premier strong safety prospect.     Cherry is a physically imposing safety who thrives in downhill situations. His ability to deliver big hits and set the tone defensively makes him a true enforcer. He reacts quickly to run plays, shedding blocks and making tackles at the line of scrimmage. His pass coverage skills continue to improve, showing promise in both zone and man assignments. As he refines his technique, his combination of size and athleticism will make him a sought-after recruit.

The Class of 2027 is shaping up to be a talented group, and the strong safety position is no exception. These rising stars bring a unique combination of physicality, football IQ, and versatility that make them standouts on the field. Whether delivering punishing tackles in the run game, covering tight ends and slot receivers in space, or serving as the defensive leader in the secondary, these safeties have shown the skills necessary to excel at the next level. As they continue to develop, their impact on the game will only grow, making them names to watch in the coming years. Let's take a closer look at the top strong safeties in the 2027 class and what makes them elite prospects.