Clemson Poised for Record NFL Draft with Nine Top Prospects
Clemson University is on the verge of achieving a significant milestone during the upcoming NFL Draft, with nine players listed among the top 250 prospects by Pro Football Focus. This surge in recognition comes despite a disappointing season for the Tigers, who finished with a record of 7-6. If all nine players are selected, it would tie the program’s record for the most players drafted in a single year.
Among the top-ranked prospects are defensive tackle Peter Woods at No. 8, cornerback Avieon Terrell at No. 19, and edge rusher T.J. Parker at No. 24. Other notable mentions include offensive tackle Blake Miller at No. 80 and wide receiver Antonio Williams at No. 101. The list also features defensive tackle DeMonte Capehart at No. 178, running back Adam Randall at No. 216, and cornerback Jeadyn Lukus at No. 234. If these players are chosen, it would mark the highest number of selections since 2016, when the Tigers matched a program record first established in 1983.
Recent Performance and Draft Implications
Clemson’s performance in the previous season has raised questions about the draft prospects of some players. The Tigers had only three players selected in the 2022 draft, the lowest total in recent years. However, this year’s draft class shows promise, particularly with three players—T.J. Parker, Peter Woods, and Avieon Terrell—expected to be picked in the first round. If any of them breaks into the top ten, it would be the highest selection for a Clemson player since quarterback Trevor Lawrence was taken first overall in 2021.
The last first-round pick from Clemson was cornerback Nate Wiggins, who was selected by the Baltimore Ravens with the No. 30 overall pick in 2023. Notably, during the 2019 NFL Draft, three former Tigers—defensive end Clelin Ferrell (No. 4, Oakland Raiders), defensive tackle Christian Wilkins (No. 13, Miami Dolphins), and defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence (No. 17, New York Giants)—were also first-round selections.
Individual Player Analysis
Despite their high rankings, both Woods and Parker faced challenges this past season. Woods recorded a career-low nine solo tackles and two sacks, while Parker’s sack total dropped significantly from 11 to just five. These statistics may impact their draft stock, as teams analyze performance trends and potential.
Offensive tackle Blake Miller had been projected as a first-round pick in early mock drafts, adding to the optimism that Clemson could break its own record for draft selections. Conversely, quarterback Cade Klubnik saw a notable decline in his performance metrics, with his touchdown total falling from 36 to 16 and passing yards decreasing from 3,639 to 2,943. Once viewed as a potential No. 1 overall pick, Klubnik’s disappointing season has led to a reevaluation of his prospects.
As the NFL Draft approaches, Clemson’s players are preparing for individual workouts and postseason Senior Bowl games, which could further influence their draft positions. The excitement surrounding the program is palpable, as fans and analysts alike await the outcomes that could redefine the Tigers’ legacy in professional football.
