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Clemson EDGE TJ Parker declares for 2026 NFL Draft

IMG_0985by: Griffin McVeigh2 hours agogriffin_mcveigh

Clemson EDGE TJ Parker has declared for the 2026 NFL Draft, he told On3’s Hayes Fawcett. Parker is going to be a hot commodity throughout the process, projected to be an early selection.

Parker played high school football at Phenix City (AL) Central, where he was a four-star prospect. He was the No. 54 overall recruit in the 2023 cycle, according to the Rivals Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.

At the time, this was a huge recruiting win for Clemson, getting him out of the state of Alabama. Schools such as Penn State, Tennessee, and Texas A&M were in on him. Not exactly the easiest schools to go against on the trail, Dabo Swinney‘s program got the job done.

From there, they reaped the benefits in a big way. Parker accumulated 127 tackles, 21.5 sacks, six forced fumbles, six fumble recoveries, and three defended passes during his time in college. Three years was all Parker needed before making his way to the professionals.

Clemson will see a few more people leaving in favor of the NFL in the coming days and weeks. Despite having a disappointing season, the roster is still viewed as one of college football’s best. The NFL will have plenty of interest in what was on campus.

Where TJ Parker is projected to land in 2026 NFL Draft

PFF recently released a mock draft, having Parker go in the latter half of the first round. He landed 20th overall to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. For reference, four players at the EDGE position went ahead of the Clemson star. Now-former teammate, Peter Woods, does as well, going No. 10 as a defensive tackle.

ESPN’s Mel Kiper has not updated his big board since around Halloween. Around a month of football has taken place since then. But Parker does top up in his top 25, also being No. 20. This is five spots lower than the previous rankings, meaning he is not liking Parker as much as he did earlier in the process.

Parker will have plenty of opportunities to impress throughout the process. You have to imagine a spot in Indianapolis for the NFL Combine will be waiting for him at some point. Stock can really begin to rise with a good week inside Lucas Oil Stadium.