Eagles predicted to pick up Clemson star in 2026 NFL mock draft

Howie Roseman and the Philadelphia Eagles’ front office have recently struck gold with some secondary picks in the NFL Draft.

Can they do it again in 2026? NFL Draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah recently projected the Eagles to take a Clemson cornerback with their 23rd overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Avieon Terrell is a junior entering the league.

“Terrell teams up with Cooper DeJean and Quinyon Mitchell to give the Eagles the best young secondary in the NFL,” Jeremiah wrote. “The former Clemson Tiger can play inside or outside.”

Versatility is key in today’s NFL, especially for the Eagles. While they have had a knack for acquiring standout inside corners, it’s clear that Cooper DeJean is the star that belongs there. Jeremiah believes that Terrell could be the right fit to star on the other side of Quinyon Mitchell, the second-year Pro Bowler.

Over three seasons at Clemson, Terrell appeared in 39 games. He totaled 125 tackles, nine of which went for a loss. He had 25 pass deflections and three total interceptions through three years.

Terrell is the brother of the Atlanta Falcons corner, AJ Terrell. The 27-year-old has been a six-year starter in the NFL. If the younger Avieon can find similar success out of the gate, his eventual NFL club will surely be happy. 

What Does Terrell Bring to the Table?

via NFL: “An athletic, fluid mover with clean transitions and enough speed to stay in phase on most vertical routes. He’s most effective in press-man coverage, where he mirrors releases with timing and discipline, staying crowded to the route. He concedes 50/50s to bigger targets at times, but is a constant catch irritant with good technique on all three levels. He can play wide or inside and is willing in run support, but he lacks ideal size. Terrell projects as an early starter thanks to his polish, ball skills and coverage versatility.”

The Eagles landed quality cornerback play from Adoree Jackson in 2025, despite a slow start.

Jackson started 10 out of 14 games. He racked up 55 tackles, deflected 11 passes, and snagged one interception.

The veteran was on a one-year deal. He’s set to become a free agent this upcoming offseason. While Jackson could be an affordable short-term addition once again, his age (31) prevents him from being a long-term option for the Eagles. If they can find a third star for a standout trio with Mitchell and DeJean, the Eagles could be set with a top secondary for many years to come.