Top defensive Mizzou targets populate updated 2027 Rivals300
After On3 and Rivals officially merged earlier this month, the scouting department put together the first Rivals300 ranking for the 2027 class. Here are the top defensive Missouri targets to crack the list.
Jalaythan Mayfield, LB, No. 58
When linebackers coach Derek Nicholson joined the staff in January, he added an extra recruiting connection to North Carolina. The Tigers already reached out to Mayfield this summer, looking to stay on the radar of the top linebacker, who took multiple unofficial visits to top programs in recent months.
Roman Igwebuike, LB, No. 96
One of the multiple Chicago (Ill.) Mt. Carmel players to be offered by Missouri in January, Igwebuike visited the Tigers for the first time in June. His stock has continued to rise with top schools, including Ohio State, joining his offer sheet.
Quinton Cypher, LB, No. 120
Another North Carolina product offered by Nicholson during the NCAA Contact Period, Cypher noted the Tigers reached out to him again June 15. Yet the four-star linebacker had nothing new to share.
Ace Alston, CB, No. 175
Alston caught the attention of Missouri while scrimmaging against wide receiver Shaun Terry II, who signed with the Tigers in the 2025 class. The cornerback added an offer in June 2024 before visiting in January and March and making plans to return this fall.
Tavares Harrington, CB, No. 200
Also receiving an offer from Missouri in January, Harrington visited with Igwebuike and others in March for a Junior Day. The cornerback took off this offseason with strong camp performances before cracking top lists at various outlets.
Alex Patton, CB, No. 241
Adding an offer from the Tigers in October, Patton quickly got on campus the following month. His relationship with cornerbacks coach Al Pogue brought him back two more times for Junior Day in March and Elite Camp in June.
Raheem Floyd, CB, No. 268
The next rising East St. Louis (Ill.) defensive back, Floyd received his Missouri offer during a visit in January. With communication now permitted between coaches and Class of 2027 recruits, Floyd mentioned his excitement in mid-June to further his relationships with Pogue and other staffers.
