A Clemson Tigers star is predicted to go to the Minnesota Vikings in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Clemson Tigers star cornerback Avieon Terrell is one of the top cornerbacks in the 2026 NFL Draft.
In Dan Parr of NFL.com's latest mock draft, he has Terrell landing with the Minnesota Vikings with the 18th overall pick.
Terrell could be a great fit for the Vikings defense, which is one of the best in the league under defensive coordinator Brian Flores.
Flores is known for scheming up one of the toughest defenses in the league, and Terrell's versatility and ability to blitz would fit seamlessly. He would join cornerbacks Byron Murphy Jr. and Isaiah Rodgers, creating a talented secondary.
In the 2024 season at Clemson, Terrell had 58 total tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, a sack, two interceptions, 12 pass deflections, three forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries.
Ken Ruinard / staff / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn ImagesHe followed that up with another good season in 2025, finishing with 48 total tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, three sacks, nine pass deflections, five forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery.
Terrell has paved his way to being one of the top cornerback prospects in the draft. However, Clemson as a whole struggled in the 2025 season.
They were expected to compete for a National Championship and be in the College Football Playoff. However, the Tigers fell short of expectations, going just 7-6 and failing to make the ACC Title Game.
Terrell was one of the few bright spots in the disappointing season for Clemson. Head coach Dabo Swinney will now need to replace Terrell, as well as other talented defenders, with TJ Parker and Peter Woods, who are also off to the NFL Draft.
The 2026 season could be a make-or-break season for Swinney. The Tigers need to get back on track and make it back to the College Football Playoff. Swinney will need to get the most out of incoming recruits and transfer portal additions to make a deep run in 2026.
They will have to do it without one of their best defenders over the last couple of years, as Terrell looks to be one of the first cornerbacks off the board in the 2026 NFL Draft.