The 2025 NFL Draft may still be months away, but ESPN is already setting its sights on the 2026 class—and Clemson’s finest are making waves. Several Tigers have emerged as early favorites, with standout stars like Cade Klubnik, Antonio Williams, T.J. Parker, and Peter Woods all making their mark as top 2026 draft prospects.
Klubnik, the rising senior quarterback, is generating major buzz as one of the top three quarterbacks in next year’s draft, joining elite company with Penn State’s Drew Allar and LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier. After a stellar performance in Clemson’s College Football Playoff loss to Texas, where he threw for 336 yards and three touchdowns, Klubnik’s 2024 season stats speak volumes—3,636 passing yards, 36 touchdowns, and only six interceptions. ESPN’s NFL Draft analyst Matt Miller praises his accuracy and poise in the pocket, despite not having the biggest arm.
Clemson’s Antonio Williams, a top target for Klubnik, is also turning heads, named one of the top three wide receivers for the 2026 draft. With 75 catches, 904 yards, and 11 touchdowns in 2024, Williams’ combination of elite speed, ball tracking, and playmaking ability positions him as one of the most dangerous receivers in the nation. At 5-11, 190 pounds, Williams’ speed and knack for creating yards after the catch make him a WR1 in waiting.
On defense, Clemson’s T.J. Parker and Peter Woods are also earning their spots at the top of the 2026 draft charts. Parker, already pegged as ESPN’s No. 1 overall player entering the draft process, had a monster sophomore season with 11 sacks and six forced fumbles, showcasing NFL-ready size at 6-3, 265 pounds. Meanwhile, Woods, a dynamic 6-3, 315-pound defensive tackle, is drawing comparisons to former Tiger Christian Wilkins, with Round 1 potential following a standout sophomore year that included three sacks and 17 hurries despite missing three games.
With so many Tigers positioned to make major impacts, it’s clear that the 2026 NFL Draft could be overflowing with Clemson talent, scheduled to take place in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Prepare for the Clemson pipeline to continue dominating the NFL stage!
