T.J. Parker, EDGE
School: Clemson University | Conference: Atlantic Coast Conference
College Experience: Junior | Age: 22 (Week 1)
Height / Weight: 6’4”/ 263 lbs
Projected Draft Status: 2nd-3rd round
Player Comparison: Bradley Chubb / Shaun Phillips
College Statistics
| Tackles | Def Interceptions | Fumbles | |||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Season | Team | Conf | Class | Pos | G | Solo | Ast | Comb | TFL | Sk | Int | Yds | IntTD | PD | FR | Yds | FRTD | FF | Awards |
| 2023* | Clemson | ACC | FR | DE | 13 | 17 | 15 | 32 | 12.5 | 5.5 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | |
| 2024 | Clemson | ACC | SO | DE | 14 | 35 | 22 | 57 | 19.5 | 11.0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 6 | |
| 2025* | Clemson | ACC | JR | DE | 12 | 19 | 18 | 37 | 9.5 | 5.0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | |
| Career | 39 | 71 | 55 | 126 | 41.5 | 21.5 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 6 | |||||
Metrics
(via nfl.com)
Per Sumersports.com
Player Overview
T.J. Parker was a four-star
recruit who exploded onto the college football scene in 2024 with a monster season. His 11 sacks, 19.5 tackles for loss, and a nation-leading 6 forced fumbles, drew the attention of scouts. However, his 2025 season is where his production fell below rookie levels. Parker declared for the draft and participated in the Senior Bowl where he is projected as one of the upside players at the EDGE position. T.J. Parker profiles as a power rusher who is at his best setting against the run and bullying tackles with power rushes. When he’s able to get his arm fully extended, Parker is often driving tackles on their butt. An underrated part of his game is how well he sets up against the run. His play strength and motor is what helped him have a disruptive 2024 season. However, there are parts of Parker’s game that leave a lot to be desired. The game film shows Parker getting stifled by tackles that can get a hand on him. He doesn’t get enough quick wins in his rushes. His pursuit angles sometimes take him out of plays. These were more evident in his final season, where Parker’s draft stock has fallen off. Even with a lower draft projection, scouts see T.J. Parker as a future edge rusher starter worthy of a Day 2 selection.
Awards & Recognition
- Freshman All-American (2023)
- FBS leader in forced fumbles (6) (2024)
- Second Team All-ACC (2024)
- Honorable Mention All-ACC (2025)
- Senior Bowl Participant (2025)
Strengths
- An array of pass rush moves at his disposal, with heavy hands.
- Very good motor.
- An exceptional one arm-stab and bull rush power that can send blockers backpedaling.
- A sound run defender, sets the edge well with great use of his length and compact body.
- Takes good angles to make tackles in the backfield.
Weaknesses
- Approaches blockers with too high pad level.
- Pass rush gets stymied once the blocker gets their hands on his chest.
- Lacks the flexibility to effectively bend and flatten the rush.
- Pursuit speed is average.
- Lacks quick twitch desired for the position
Let’s See His Work
T.J. Parker’s number is #3
Interviews
How He Fits on the Commanders
Revamping the pass rush was a major need in the offseason. The front office has signed guys for the short- and long-term who can provide energy and motor. The position group could still use some drafted talent, which is where T.J. Parker comes in. Parker has the capability of setting the edge or being a disruptor behind the line of scrimmage. He has shown flashes of domination in his 2024 season, and will enter the league at age-22. For the coaching staff, the goal is to help Parker continue to utilize his tools, refine his rush, and keep him committed with consistent effort. With the Commanders, he can fit into the rotation of edge rushers and can grow into a long-time starter.
