2027 Defenders Who Dominated at Best in Class

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://preplacrosse.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/13/2025/06/IMG_1250-edited-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-129020" /></figure>   The 2025 Best in Class event wasn't just a showcase for offensive firepower — it was a gauntlet for defenders. With elite attackmen and dodging midfielders from all over the country putting their skills on display, defenders were constantly tested against some of the best offensive talent in the 2027 class. Whether it was speed, slick feeds from X, or high-IQ off-ball movement, there was no room for error. Making things even more intense, the sidelines were lined with some of the top defensive minds in Division I lacrosse, watching every slide, recovery, and stick check with a critical eye. Against that kind of pressure, the defenders below didn't just hold their own — they thrived. Let's take a look at the defenders that stood out:    Dominating from the defensive end of the field, one player consistently set the tone at the Best in Class event. With a rare blend of physical tools and mental toughness, this defender brought the full package — size, intensity, communication, footwork, stick skills, and field awareness. He was the loudest voice on the field, constantly directing traffic and energizing his teammates.   Whether it was delivering a punishing slide, throwing a disruptive takeaway check, or cleanly handling the ball in transition, [player_tooltip player_id='123562' first='Patrick' last='Roach'] made his presence felt on every rep. He doesn't just defend — he bullies opponents into submission, the kind of gritty enforcer every elite defense needs. Players with his combination of edge, athleticism, and poise are few and far between, and Roach showed why he's one of the top 2027 defenders in the country.     Some defenders dominate with finesse, others with sheer force — this one brought both, along with a sharp mind for the game. One of the first things that stood out at the Best in Class event was the physical presence of a defender who clearly knows how to use his size to his advantage. He played with controlled aggression, never reckless, always calculated — a rare blend for a high school prospect.   Jack Levine consistently delivered in tough matchups, showing the ability to throw his weight around while staying fundamentally sound. He was confident with the ball in his stick, whether it was pushing through the clear or carrying beyond the midline. Just as impressive as his physical tools was the leadership he showed between reps — pulling teammates aside, communicating adjustments, and keeping everyone locked in. Levine checks the boxes college coaches love: size, skill, IQ, and intangibles.     In a showcase loaded with talent, few defenders played with as much controlled violence and vocal intensity as this one. From the very first whistle at the Best in Class event, it was clear that this defender wasn't there to blend in — he was there to make a statement.   Leonard brought a punishing edge to every rep. He was one of the most physical defenders on the field, always looking for opportunities to deliver clean, hard hits within the rules of the game. His willingness to hunt down double teams and put ball carriers on the ground made him a constant disruption to opposing offenses. Beyond the physicality, Leonard was also a communicator — constantly barking out instructions and helping organize his unit. That kind of presence, both physically and vocally, is something college coaches notice right away. He's the kind of tone-setter every defense wants — and one that offenses hate to see across from them.     Some defenders turn heads with flashy takeaways — others earn respect with the subtle details. This one did both at the 2025 Best in Class event, showing a complete understanding of team defense and how to execute it at a high level.   Ehrhart stood out for his outstanding off ball defense, consistently taking perfect angles and timing his slides with precision. He didn't just show up late for contact — he arrived with intent, often turning those slides into takeaways. His positioning and awareness helped erase scoring chances before they developed. On the ball, he proved just as reliable. A physical, no-nonsense defender, Ehrhart didn't back down from anyone and made his matchups earn every inch. Quietly effective and fundamentally sound, he's the type of defender who helps build championship-level defenses — and college coaches are sure to take notice.     Some defenders just have a knack for being in the right place at the right time — and this one made it look easy at the 2025 Best in Class event. He was a vacuum on ground balls, routinely winning possessions and turning chaos into control. That kind of effort and consistency is exactly what coaches love to see in a young close defenseman. McDougall showed quick feet and solid positioning, allowing him to stay locked in on his matchup. What really caught the eye, though, were his smooth stick fakes and poise with the ball in his stick during clears — rare traits that hint at upside beyond the defensive third. If he can continue to add speed and tighten up his handle under pressure, he's a name college coaches will want to circle moving forward.