Clemson Star Earns Bold First-Round Prediction

Clemson Tigers star T.J. Parker is a talented edge rusher ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft. Parker has been projected to go in the late first round or second round of the draft.

In Dan Parr of NFL.com's latest mock draft, he has Parker landing with the AFC Champion New England Patriots with the 31st overall pick.

One of the Patriots' weaknesses on the roster is their pass rush, and it could become even more of a need if K'Lavon Chaisson leaves in free agency. 

Parker could be a great fit for Mike Vrabel's team as a player with a ton of potential off the edge. He could help them make another deep playoff run next year.

In his freshman season, Parker had 32 total tackles, 12.5 tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks, and a fumble recovery. He followed it up with his best season in 2024, finishing with 57 total tackles, 19.5 tackles for loss, 11 sacks, six forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries.

Parker wasn't at the same level in the 2025 season, but was still solid, producing 37 total tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, five sacks, and three fumble recoveries.

While his numbers dipped, Parker still has the potential to become a great pass rusher at the next level.

Losing Parker will be a tough blow for the Tigers. Like Parker, Clemson underperformed in 2025, going just 7-6 and losing in the Pinstripe Bowl to Penn State.

Head coach Dabo Swinney is now entering a pivotal season for his future and for turning around the program. If the Tigers struggle out of the gate, Swinney could quickly find himself on the hot seat despite how successful he has been throughout his career.

Clemson will need to make a push back to the College Football Playoff, but will need new players to step up with starters like Parker, Avieon Terrell, Peter Woods, Cade Klubnik, and more off to the NFL Draft.

Swinney and the Tigers enter the 2026 season needing to turn things around fast, while Parker will look to make an impact off the edge for whatever team selects him in the draft.

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