2027 NFL Draft Summer Scouting Report: Earl Little Jr., S, Ohio State

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 Vikings fans, but also give them an idea of names to follow and watch in the fall as needs pop up for Minnesota.

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 Vikings, the Bears, or the Steelers. We write these so Vikings fans can be the most informed fans.

So if you are still with us, enjoy our latest Summer Scouting report as we prepare you for the Fall.

FilmBackground Info

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 2026Notable 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 Vikings Wire: 2027 NFL Draft Summer Scouting Report on Ohio State’s Earl Little Jr.

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