ESPN names multiple Clemson players among best draft picks of 2026
Clemson football’s presence in this year’s NFL Draft didn’t just show up on draft night, it’s still being talked about after the fact. ESPN recently broke down the top 100 selections across the league, and five former Tigers made the cut, a sign of how much respect this class is getting.
The highest-ranked Clemson name on that list is Avieon Terrell, who landed at No. 16. Atlanta grabbed him in the second round, and the storyline writes itself with him joining his brother in the Falcons’ secondary. A late pre-draft injury likely cost Terrell a chance to go earlier, but ESPN still views him as someone who can step in and contribute right away, especially with his ability to play inside.
Blake Miller wasn’t far behind, coming in at No. 28 after Detroit used a mid-first-round pick on him. His experience stands out more than anything, with over 50 starts at Clemson. The Lions clearly valued his toughness and consistency, and his arrival could shift pieces around on their offensive line moving forward.
Peter Woods shows up at No. 51, heading to Kansas City late in the first round. While he didn’t carry a first-round grade from ESPN, there’s belief his skill set could translate even better at the next level. With the Chiefs thinking about the future along the interior defensive line, Woods gives them a young option to develop.
Antonio Williams is another name that could outperform his draft slot. Ranked No. 62 after going in the third round, he gives Washington a much-needed boost at receiver. His ability to separate and line up in multiple spots makes him an intriguing long-term piece in that offense.
T.J. Parker closes out the Clemson group at No. 65. Buffalo addressed a major need by bringing him in, and the move looks even better considering they traded back and still got him. His addition helps restock a defensive front that needed reinforcements.
All of it adds up to a big-picture takeaway, Clemson made noise early and often in this draft. Five players off the board in the first three rounds set a new program mark, and the Tigers kept rolling with nine total selections in the first five rounds, another record for the program.
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This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: ESPN ranks Clemson players among Top 100 best NLF Draft picks of 2026
