NFL Mock Draft Watch: Eagles Eye Clemson’s Avieon Terrell to Bolster Secondary
Draft season is officially underway, and with it comes the annual wave of mock drafts, projections, and front office smoke screens. But for the Philadelphia Eagles, the focus heading into the 2026 NFL Draft feels a little more defined than usual - and it might be time to zero in on the secondary.
After a 2025 season that exposed some real vulnerabilities at the cornerback position, particularly opposite Darius Slay, the Eagles find themselves in need of a long-term answer at CB2. Veteran Adoree' Jackson had moments down the stretch, but his overall inconsistency makes it tough to envision him back in midnight green next season. That opens the door for a fresh face, and according to NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah, that face could belong to Clemson standout Avieon Terrell.
Jeremiah’s first mock draft of the year has the Eagles selecting Terrell with the 23rd overall pick - a move that would signal a serious investment in a young, dynamic secondary. In his projection, Terrell would join 2023 first-rounder Cooper DeJean and rising talent Quinyon Mitchell to form what could quickly become one of the most exciting young defensive backfields in the league.
And there’s a lot to like about Terrell’s game.
Terrell’s Versatility Could Be a Game-Changer
At Clemson, Terrell wasn’t just productive - he was disruptive. In 12 games last season, he tallied 48 tackles, nine pass breakups, 4.5 tackles for loss, three sacks, and an ACC-best five forced fumbles.
That’s the kind of stat line that jumps off the page, especially for a cornerback. He was a first-team All-ACC selection in 2025 after earning second-team honors the year before, showing steady growth and consistency in one of college football’s toughest conferences.
What makes Terrell especially appealing to Philly is his versatility. He’s shown he can line up both inside and outside, and he brings physicality to the position - a trait Vic Fangio values highly in his defensive scheme.
Fangio has leaned on DeJean to hold down the slot, and while DeJean has flashed, he’s also had his share of growing pains when pushed outside. Terrell’s skill set gives the Eagles flexibility to mix and match based on matchups and formations.
He’s also a willing tackler and a threat on corner blitzes, something Fangio has used creatively in the past. Think of a scenario where DeJean and Terrell can rotate between the slot and boundary, keeping offenses guessing and allowing the Eagles to disguise coverage more effectively. It’s the kind of chess piece dynamic that can elevate a defense from solid to special.
The CB2 Spot Can’t Be Missed Again
Let’s be real - the Eagles spent a lot of capital last offseason trying to solve the CB2 problem, and it didn’t pan out. Kelee Ringo didn’t make the leap many hoped for, and the revolving door at the position became a weekly concern. It’s not a stretch to say that cornerback was one of the biggest weak spots on an otherwise talented roster.
That’s why nailing this pick matters. Yes, wide receiver and tight end are also areas of need, especially with some potential departures looming on the offensive side.
But the Eagles can’t afford another year of patchwork solutions at corner. If Terrell is the guy - and his tape suggests he could be - then Philly may finally have the stability they’ve been searching for at CB2.
Looking Ahead
The Eagles are at a bit of a crossroads. With an aging core and some cap decisions looming, this draft could help shape the next five years of the franchise. Building a young, athletic, and versatile secondary is a smart way to stay competitive in a league that’s more pass-heavy than ever.
Avieon Terrell may not be a household name yet, but in a few months, that could change. If the Eagles do call his name on draft night, they’ll be getting a corner who brings toughness, production, and the kind of positional flexibility that modern defenses crave.
And if he clicks alongside DeJean and Mitchell? Watch out - Philly’s secondary might just become the envy of the league.