Dabo Swinney is sending many to the league this year.
2026 NFL Draft projections show Clemson defensive takes over originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
In the latest 2026 NFL mock draft from USA Today’s Bears Wire, Clemson’s defense did not just make an appearance. It took over the first round conversation, with three Tigers projected to come off the board in the opening 23 picks.
At No. 14 overall, Vincent Parise sends Peter Woods to the Baltimore Ravens, framing the selection around urgency as much as talent. “With a new coach, revamping their defense is of the utmost importance,” Parise wrote, adding that if Baltimore does not get that side of the ball figured out, it would be “another wasted year of Lamar Jackson at the height of his powers.” Woods fits that description. He brings interior strength and reliability to a defense that needs to stabilize quickly if the Ravens want to maximize their championship window.
A few picks later at No. 17, Parise projects Avieon Terrell to the Detroit Lions, with a clear emphasis on correction and response. “The Detroit Lions select Avieon Terrell out of Clemson to help improve their secondary,” Parise wrote, noting that “Dan Campbell’s team will be looking for a bounce back year in 2026.” Terrell’s physical style and steady presence align with a defense trying to regain its edge and consistency after a disappointing season.
At No. 23 overall, Clemson’s first round presence is capped by T.J. Parker heading to the Philadelphia Eagles. “The Philadelphia Eagles add another edge rusher with Clemson’s T.J. Parker,” Parise wrote, projecting that “their pass rush will be borderline unstoppable if a player like Parker panned out for them,” especially with Jalen Carter already in place. It is a familiar blueprint for Philadelphia, building dominance up front and letting pressure dictate everything else.
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Taken together, Woods, Terrell, and Parker reflect how NFL evaluators are talking about Clemson’s defense again. Woods anchors the middle. Terrell steadies the secondary. Parker amplifies pressure. That combination explains why all three Tigers are being trusted with first round expectations.
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