2027 NFL Draft Summer Scouting Report: Earl Little Jr., S, Ohio State
· Yahoo Sports
Summer is here, sort of, and it is everyone’s favorite time of the year, scouting time. Every year, we do Summer Scouting to preview college football for Bucs fans, but also give them an idea of names to follow and watch in the fall as needs pop up for Tampa Bay.
Are we going to write about quarterbacks? Offensive tackles? Edge rushers? You know it, but why? Because other NFL teams will draft them, just as they will draft every other position. It all matters whether these players end up on the Bucs, the Bears, or the Steelers. We write these so Bucs fans can be the most informed fans.
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So if you are still with us, enjoy our latest Summer Scouting report as we prepare you for the Fall.
Film
- Virginia
- Alabama
Background Info
- Listed at 6-2/190 lbs.
- 4-Star recruit according to 247 Sports
- Second Team All-ACC in 2025
- Transferred from Alabama to Florida State to Ohio State
- Son of former NFL player Earl Little
- His high school coach was Patrick Surtain
- Invited to the All-American Bowl in high school
Notable career stats heading into 2026
- 93 Tackles
- 3 Tackles for a Loss
- 4 Interceptions
- 2 Passes Broken Up
Notable numbers from PFF heading into 2026
- 60.9 Career PFF Run Defense Grade
- 48.1 Career PFF Coverage Grade
- 96.4QBR allowed when targeted
Strengths
- Fluid footwork and hip movement for change of direction
- Makes smart and decisive decisions
- Can be used around the defense beyond just at safety
- Plays with a controlled edge
- Provides reliable coverage in the pass game
Player Summary
Earl Little Jr. is a fun safety prospect who deserves more attention heading into the 2026 season. At Ohio State, he has a chance to thrive in that high-profile defense and become one of its leaders. Little provides reliable coverage, good range, and an edge that every defense needs to help take it to the next level. He can be a starter for someone in the NFL, and while he may never be a Caleb Downs type of player, he is almost as safe a pick as you can get while improving your secondary if your team lands him.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: 2027 NFL Draft Summer Scouting Report on Ohio State's Earl Little Jr.