ESPN’s Matt Miller ranked Avieon Terrell as the 16th biggest steal of the 2026 draft. Terrell was selected 48th overall by the Atlanta Falcons. It’s worth noting that four other Tigers made Miller’s top 100: Blake Miller (28th), Peter Woods (51st), Antonio Williams (62nd) and TJ Parker (65th).
Terrell was expected to go in the tail end of the first round before aggravating a hamstring injury during the draft process. That, coupled with a relative lack of size and questions about whether he’s a boundary or nickel corner, led to a drastic slide for such an established corner.
With the selection, Terrell was able to join his older brother, AJ, in Atlanta, who the Falcons also drafted from Clemson. The two will be playing on the same football team for the first time in their lives, playing the same position.
Miller highlighted this dynamic in his ranking: “Terrell will make an immediate impact, likely in the slot. And he gets to join his older brother, star cornerback A.J. Terrell Jr., in Atlanta. How much fun is that? A lot … unless you’re an NFC South quarterback.”
Whether Avieon plays in the slot or outside, he’s a great fit for Jeff Ulbrick and Atlanta’s defense, and fills a need perfectly. The pick was a perfect mix of a talented player, a perfect fit, and a great story, and should spark the beginning of a great NFL career.
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This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: Clemson star considered one of the best draft selection in 2026