NFL Analyst Reveals Shocking Peter Woods Draft Projection

Clemson Tigers defensive tackle Peter Woods is an intriguing prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft.

In Daniel Jeremiah's top 50 prospects in the upcoming draft, Woods was ranked as the 35th-best prospect.

Woods draft stock has fluctuated widely over the last year. Heading into the 2025 season, he was a top-five prospect and likely a top-10 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. 

That came after a 2024 season at Clemson, where he finished with 28 total tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss, three sacks, and a forced fumble. He was a very disruptive player on the Tigers' defensive line, but didn't produce at the same level in 2025.

He finished his 2025 campaign with 30 total tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, and two sacks. 

At his best, Woods is a great run stopper with the ability to rush the passer by pushing the pocket.

However, Woods has struggled to be consistent on the field. He has shown flashes and the potential of being an elite player, but with his up-and-down performances, it's hard for a team to invest an early pick on him.

With Woods' inconsistency, his draft stock has gone from being a lock to go in the early to mid-first round to potentially falling to the second round.

If an NFL team is able to unlock his full potential, Woods could be a staple for a defensive line for years to come, as an elite run stuffer and disruptive pass rusher.

While Woods' draft stock continues to change, Dabo Swinney and the Tigers are looking ahead to the 2026 season.

Clemson finished with a record of just 7-6 in 2025, falling way short of competing for a National Championship. Swinney is now tasked with getting the program back on track, which will require players stepping up into bigger roles.

The Tigers are losing some key defensive players to the NFL Draft, with Woods, Avieon Terrell, and TJ Parker.

It won't be easy for Swinney to find suitable replacements, but it's necessary for Clemson to get back to their winning ways and into the College Football Playoff.

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