2026 NFL DRAFT
PROSPECT PROFILE
TJ Parker
EDGE, Clemson 6-4, 263
Strengths
- Violent hands that keep his frame clean and leave tackles off balance letting him get to the edge
- Good ability to sink his hips and anchor to set an edge
- Shows fantastic awareness to continue to read the play as he rushes helping him diagnose throughout the rep and assists in taking better angles to the QB as they shift in the pocket
- Effective at attacking the outside shoulder of the tackle with a nice long arm and power extension
- Plays with a mean streak and violence
- First step isn’t elite, but he has enough quickness to set up his rushes by toggling tempo and power. This chess match is how he gets an extra step without pure speed.
Weaknesses
- Burst isn’t elite so he needs to work to get around the edge
- He can have repeated series where he does not make an impact
- Needs to improve his pass rush repertoire as he can be stifled if he doesn’t win with his initial plan
- Can let his emotions come unchecked. He is sometimes more concerned with retaliating after a chippy play than to execute his assignment
TJ Parker has the tools to become a very good three-down player at the next level, but he can step in and contribute immediately. He already plays with a good understanding of how to use his leverage and length to win at the POA and to get to the edge when rushing. He also displays a good anchor and power to set an edge and to shed defenders in run defense. He already displays good hands that keep tackles off balance while attacking their outside shoulder, to maneuver around the edge. He will not win with pure speed off the snap repeatedly, but he shows good toggling between tempo and power that makes his speed rushes effective enough.
Parker would be a good fit for the Los Angeles Chargers. There is enough balance in his game where he can come in and be the rotational Edge 3 and can be used as a DPR in sub packages. He can ease into his role without being burdened to slide into a starting spot immediately, but he is well rounded enough to do so. I expect his draft range to be between 16-35, so he should be in serious play at 1.22 for Los Angeles.
