## Can Clemson Star Avieon Terrell Bridge the Gap to NFL Draft Success?

Avieon Terrell has been a key piece of Clemson's defense for two seasons, racking up 77 tackles, five tackles for loss, one sack, three interceptions, and 16 pass deflections in 27 games.  He's projected as a top defensive back prospect for the 2026 NFL Draft. But even with his impressive collegiate stats, questions remain about whether Terrell can translate his talent to the professional level.

NFL Draft analyst Todd McShay recently weighed in on Terrell's potential during “The McShay Show.”  "He was sixth on the team with 58 tackles, 12 pass breakups and two interceptions last year," McShay said. "5-foot-11, 180 pounds. I actually think there’s a gap after the top two defensive linemen we just talked about (Peter Woods and T.J. Parker), then there’s Terrell. But then there’s a significant gap with the rest of these (defensive guys in terms of NFL Draft prospects).”

McShay sees Terrell as a "Day Two" prospect, potentially landing in the second round.  

**“Easy Speed” Meets Inconsistency**


Terrell's sophomore season saw him shine, ranking second in the ACC with 12 passes defended and three forced fumbles, earning him Second Team All-ACC honors. McShay acknowledged Terrell's strengths: "I like him a lot but I see the flaws," he said. “Really good in off-coverage I thought. He can explode out of his petal. He really can. Good body control around the ball (for the most part). I really liked him driving on the ball and I think he’s athletically quick and sudden and all of those things. I think he’s got ‘easy speed’ and I preach that a lot.” 

McShay emphasized the importance of "easy speed" for both receivers and cornerbacks, explaining how it allows players to be both fast and controlled when reacting to airborne passes. He believes Terrell possesses this crucial attribute.

However, McShay also pointed out a significant weakness: "I actually think he’s a good form tackler, but the problem is he gets there and wraps up but has got to hold on for the cavalry to come in because he can’t finish them off," he said. “He shows some pop at times but he’s too inconsistent.”


The upcoming season will be crucial for Terrell as Clemson aims for a top-ranked defense.  They face LSU in their opener on August 30th, kicking off at 7:30 PM on ABC. Will Terrell prove his doubters wrong and solidify his place among the elite NFL draft prospects? Only time will tell. 


## Can Clemson Star Avieon Terrell Bridge the Gap to NFL Draft Success?

Avieon Terrell has been a key piece of Clemson's defense for two seasons, racking up 77

Todd McShay breaks down Avieon Terrell as NFL prospect, poin

Todd McShay breaks down Avieon Terrell as NFL prospect, points out flaws

## Tigers Roaring: Clemson Aims for National Glory

College football expert Phil Steele is predicting big things for the Clemson Tigers in 2025. "This year QB [Cade] Klubnik and my #2 receiving corps operate behind my #3 Oline," Steele said. "While they lose RB [Phil] Mafah, they have a fine stable of backs and this is one of the most potent offenses in the country!"

**Offensive Firepower Returning**

Clemson's offensive unit is loaded with returning talent.  Eight starters are back, led by quarterback Cade Klubnik. In 2024, Klubnik threw for an impressive 3,639 yards and 36 touchdowns, ranking third in the country. He only threw six interceptions. This season, he'll be targeting top receivers Antonio Williams, Bryant Wesco Jr., and TJ Moore.

**Defensive Reinforcements and a New Leader**

Steele also highlights Clemson's defensive potential: "This year the defensive line is much more experienced and deeper and they have my #8 rated LB corps," he wrote. "New DC Tom Allen will have them allowing less big plays, and this will be more of the type of defense you expect to see on the field for Clemson.”

The Tigers' defense boasts eight returning starters.  Headlining the changes is new defensive coordinator Tom Allen, who replaces Wes Goodwin. Allen brings experience from Penn State, where his defense ranked seventh in the nation, allowing just 294.8 yards per game.


**Championship Aspirations?**

"Clemson used the portal a little this year to basically go from 0 to 4 returning starters on the DLine,” Steele wrote. “They will have an improved D with DC Tom Allen and the offense is one of the nation’s best.  Clemson opens with LSU and has road games at [Georgia] Tech, Louisville and South Carolina but could be favored in all 12 games. With little turnover they have a cohesive roster… more of a team atmosphere than most and are a legitimate National Title contender.”   


## Tigers Roaring: Clemson Aims for National Glory

College football expert Phil Steele is predicting big things for the Clemson Tigers in 2025. "This year QB [

#Clemson tigers football

Todd McShay breaks down Avieon Terrell as NFL prospect, points out flaws

Clemson Tigers Football: Phil Steele 2025 Forecast