I know that's a metaphorical expression, but let's look at it in a literal sense. Tons = 4000 pounds or more. At 150-200 pounds per average scientist, that would be at least 20-30 "ID scientists". I seriously doubt there are that many in the entire world, even if you leave off "brilliant".
Don't try to counter this with that list the DI people cooked up; it was scientists who said they don't think Darwinian evolution is the whole story, and that more research is needed; that is not the same as saying they agreed with ID in any way shape or form.
Don't bring a comic book to an encyclopedia fight