ESPN surveyed more than 20 NFL‑level personnel executives to rank the nation’s returning defenders for the 2026 season. After narrowing down over 40 vote‑getters, the panel crowned Notre Dame junior cornerback Leonard Moore as the top defensive player. Moore’s 2025 line‑up of 31 tackles, seven pass breakups and five interceptions cemented his reputation as a lockdown corner. His coverage skills limit opponents' passing options.

Texas edge rusher Colin Simmons earned the second slot with a career‑high 12 sacks, 15.5 tackles for loss and 84 pressures across two seasons, leading the SEC in disruption. Scouts praised his sub‑two‑second rush time and ability to drop into coverage, projecting him as a first‑round NFL draft candidate and a cornerstone of Texas’ revamped defense. His versatility also benefits run support.

South Carolina’s Dylan Stewart rounded out the top three, delivering 4.5 sacks, three forced fumbles and a 2.72‑second time‑to‑pressure, the sixth‑best mark among SEC linemen. His blend of size, speed and consistency keeps him among the highest‑paid collegiate defenders despite portal rumors. Their impact reshapes recruiting battles. The trio’s dominance forces opponents to redesign game plans, underscoring the premium placed on elite playmaking on defense.