Clemson football’s next NFL draft class could rewrite the program’s record books if early projections are any clue.

In his first look at the 2026 draft, ESPN’s Matt Miller sees a big Clemson presence in round one. His mock includes five Tigers among the top 24 picks — with three inside the top six and four inside the top 14.

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Leading the way is quarterback Cade Klubnik, who Miller believes will be the first player off the board. He has the Cleveland Browns using the No. 1 overall pick on Klubnik, calling him their best shot at a true franchise QB despite recent attempts. After throwing for over 3,600 yards and 36 touchdowns last season — and showing plenty of big-game poise — Klubnik could join Trevor Lawrence as Clemson’s second-ever top overall selection.

Defensive end T.J. Parker is projected to be gone soon after. Miller slots him at No. 3 to Tennessee, pointing to his 11 sacks and six forced fumbles as proof the Titans would finally land the dominant edge threat they’ve been missing.Peter Woods follows at No. 6, where Miller has the Carolina Panthers breaking tradition by drafting a Clemson player for the first time. The 315-pound defensive tackle would add punch next to Derrick Brown after producing three sacks and constant pressure last fall.

Wide receiver Antonio Williams rounds out the top half of the first round for Clemson in this mock, projected to Arizona at No. 14. Miller calls Williams the best wideout in the class after hauling in 75 catches and 11 touchdowns as a sophomore. He’d pair nicely with Marvin Harrison Jr. and star tight end Trey McBride to boost the Cardinals’ offense.

Cornerback Avieon Terrell closes the group at No. 24, slotted to Cincinnati to help steady the Bengals’ secondary. His 13 pass breakups and family ties — he’s the younger brother of Falcons star A.J. Terrell — only add to his appeal.

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If this holds true, Clemson could easily top its record of three first-round picks, set back in 2019. The Tigers’ draft pipeline shows no sign of slowing down — and Pittsburgh, the host city for the 2026 draft, might just hear “Clemson” called plenty of times next April.

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This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: ESPN’s Matt Miller has four Tigers in his early 2026 NFL mock draft