Clemson Tigers Star Defender Selected by Tennessee Titans in 2026 NFL Mock Draft

In a notable projection for the 2026 NFL Draft, Clemson Tigers standout defensive back Avieon Terrell has been selected by the Tennessee Titans. This early mock draft pick highlights Terrell’s rising stock and the Titans’ strategic focus on bolstering their secondary.
Avieon Terrell: A Rising Defensive Star
Avieon Terrell, standing 5’11” and weighing 180 pounds, has emerged as one of the top cornerback prospects in college football. His performance for the Clemson Tigers has been nothing short of impressive, making him a prime candidate for the upcoming NFL Draft.
Key Attributes:
- Pass Coverage: Terrell showcased elite quickness and exceptional ball reaction skills, leading to 13 pass breakups in a single season—the most by a Clemson player since 2014. His ability to mirror receivers and disrupt passing lanes has been a hallmark of his game.
- Run Support: Pro Football Focus (PFF) recognized Terrell as the highest-graded ACC cornerback against the run, demonstrating his versatility and willingness to engage in physical play.
- Fluidity and Agility: Terrell’s smooth backpedal and effortless change-of-direction ability make him a formidable presence in the defensive backfield.
- Discipline: While his aggressive playstyle is a strength, Terrell’s tendency to be overly grabby in coverage resulted in seven penalties, an area he aims to refine.
Tennessee Titans’ Strategic Selection
The Tennessee Titans, recognizing the need to strengthen their secondary, have identified Terrell as a valuable asset. His skill set aligns with the Titans’ defensive philosophy, emphasizing versatility and playmaking ability in the defensive backfield.
Team Needs:
- Secondary Enhancement: The Titans have been focusing on improving their pass defense, and Terrell’s addition would address this need effectively.
- Versatility: Terrell’s ability to contribute in both pass coverage and run support adds depth to the Titans’ defensive schemes.
- Youthful Energy: As a young and dynamic player, Terrell brings fresh energy to the Titans’ defense, complementing their existing roster.
Projected Impact for the Titans
Should Terrell be selected by the Titans, his immediate impact would likely be felt in the following areas:
- Starting Role: Given his skill set, Terrell could step into a starting cornerback position, providing immediate contributions to the Titans’ defense.
- Defensive Playmaking: His ball-hawking abilities and physicality would enhance the Titans’ capacity to create turnovers and disrupt opposing offenses.
- Leadership Development: As a rising star, Terrell has the potential to develop into a leader in the defensive backfield, guiding younger players and setting a standard for excellence.
Looking Ahead
While this selection is based on an early mock draft, it underscores the growing recognition of Avieon Terrell’s talents and the Tennessee Titans’ commitment to strengthening their defense. As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, Terrell’s performance in the upcoming college season will be pivotal in solidifying his draft position.
For the Titans, selecting Terrell would not only address a critical need in their secondary but also signal a proactive approach to building a formidable defense capable of competing at the highest levels.
Avieon Terrell’s projected selection by the Tennessee Titans in the 2026 NFL Draft reflects his status as a top-tier defensive prospect and the Titans’ strategic focus on enhancing their defensive capabilities. As the draft approaches, all eyes will be on Terrell’s continued development and the potential impact he could have on the Titans’ future success.