Clemson CB Avieon Terrell Lands With NFC Contender in Mock Draft

Clemson Tigers star Avieon Terrell is among the top cornerbacks in the 2026 NFL Draft. 

In Fox Sports' latest mock draft, Terrell lands with an NFC contender in the Detroit Lions with the 17th overall pick.

Terrell could be a great fit for the Lions, joining a secondary alongside Terrion Arnold and the safety duo of Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph.

He has been a productive cornerback for Clemson over the last three seasons. In his freshman campaign in 2023, Terrell had 19 total tackles, four pass deflections, and an interception.

He had a breakout season in 2024, finishing with 58 total tackles, 12 pass deflections, two interceptions, 4.5 tackles for loss, a sack, three forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries.

Terrell played at a high level again in 2025, posting 48 total tackles, nine pass deflections, 4.5 tackles for loss, three sacks, five forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery.

The Lions' secondary dealt with injuries in the 2025 season, but they could use some more talent and depth at the cornerback position. Detroit missed out on the playoffs, but still has a talented roster and could make a deep run in 2026.

If Terrell lands with the Lions, he would have the opportunity to contribute to a competitive roster right away.

Meanwhile, Clemson will look to replace Terrell and other starters who are heading to the NFL Draft, including Peter Woods, T.J. Parker, Cade Klubnik, and more.

Dabo Swinney and the Tigers were unable to maximize the talent on the roster, as they went just 7-6, missing out on the College Football Playoff and ACC Title Game.

Clemson was expected to be a contender to make a run in the College Football Playoff and compete for a National Championship, but struggled mightily.

Swinney will need to find a way to elevate the Tigers in 2026 in what could be a make-or-break season for his job while replacing key players like Terrell.

Terrell was one of the few bright spots for Clemson and will now go off to the NFL Draft as one of the top cornerback prospects.

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