2026 NFL Draft Profile: T.J. Parker, DE/EDGE, Clemson

Pros:

• Devastating hand usage and timing when shedding blocks – consistently creates separation with violent punch and active counters that leave tackles grasping at air.
• Natural ball-dislodger with exceptional timing – six forced fumbles in 2024 wasn’t luck but rather calculated violence and precise targeting at the catch point.
• Sets a firm edge against the run with excellent length and functional strength, controlling blockers before shedding to make plays in his gap.
• Advanced technician for his age with refined pass rush plan – sequences moves together fluently while maintaining leverage throughout his rush arc.
• Consistent production against elite competition – stepped up in biggest moments including multiple TFLs against Texas in the College Football Playoff.
• Exceptional football IQ and spatial awareness – diagnoses screen plays quickly and adjusts rush paths to avoid losing contain responsibilities.
• Shows nasty competitive demeanor when challenged – elevates intensity after getting chipped and plays with visible mean streak against rival offensive linemen.
• Versatile alignment potential – effective rushing from two-point stance or with hand in dirt, offering valuable scheme flexibility at the next level.

Cons:

• First-step explosiveness lacks elite juice – wins more with technique and timing than pure twitch off the snap, limiting his ceiling as a speed rusher.
• Inconsistent motor that runs hot and cold depending on game situation – will abandon backside pursuit when plays break away from his side.
• Occasionally plays with pad level too high, negating his natural leverage advantages and making him susceptible to stronger tackles locking him up.
• Coverage responsibilities remain a work in progress – shows stiffness when dropping into space and lacks fluidity when changing direction.
• Tackling technique can get sloppy in space – relies too heavily on arm tackles when working in traffic, leading to missed opportunities in the backfield.

Summary:

Parker’s game has a level of nuance that sets him apart from other athletes at his position. He showcases veteran-like skills in manipulating blockers, utilizing subtle head fakes and shoulder dips to craft attack angles that many college rushers haven’t mastered. His performance against double-teams and chip blocks is impressive – he stays relentless through contact and maintains his balance where others might falter. He’s got the same explosive hand techniques that have made top pass rushers successful, paired with a sturdier anchor against the run.