NFL teams looking for a big, athletic defensive lineman in the 2026 NFL Draft should look no further than Clemson’s Peter Woods.
Ranked as one of the top defenders prior to the 2025 college football season, Woods wasn’t in the spotlight during the season but still declared for the draft. Despite a small drop in numbers, Woods is still valued as a potential top 10-15 pick in the draft after a junior season in which he recorded 30 total tackles and 2.0 sacks. His performance still earned him All-ACC honors in 2025 and has him as a top-rated interior defensive lineman.
With Woods, it is the versatility that stands out. As a high-intensity, high-impact player, Woods is punishing when defending the run and has the technique and bull rush to be an effective pocket rusher whether that is coming up the middle or off the edge.
Peter Woods is a “pocket disrupter” with top 10 value
Again, prior to the 2025 college football season, Woods was ranked as one of the top 5 defenders in the nation. That value dropped a little during the season as Clemson struggled. The talent, however, hasn’t changed. Given that talent and the presence he brings along the defensive line, Woods is still a top 10 prospect according to ESPN’s Matt Miller who noted his pass rush ability as a prime reason.
Miller writes:
“Woods is a 3-technique defensive tackle with the quickness to be an immediate pocket disruptor in the NFL. He gets double-teamed a lot because offensive linemen struggle to match his first step in one-on-one situations. Woods has the strength to counter that, accumulating five career sacks and 42 hurries despite the extra attention. Though his lack of sack production could limit his upside for some teams, Woods' position-specific traits are good enough to make him a top 10 pick.”
It's the upside and combination of speed and power of Woods that will have NFL teams selecting in the top 15 intrigued by what he can bring to the table. As a force in the middle who is great at defending the run as well as pushing the pocket, Woods will draw more attention from NFL scouts leading up to the draft.
Let’s look at which teams would be good fits for Peter Woods.
3 NFL teams in position to land Peter Woods
Washington Commanders:
In holding a top 10 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, the Commanders will be in position to add a defensive playmaker in the front seven whether it be a pure edge rusher or a defensive lineman who can move along the defensive line and be disruptive. That describes the Clemson star who has drawn comparisons to Tennessee Titans star Jeffery Simmons. Woods had 2.0 sacks in 2025 with Clemson and 3.0 sacks in 2024. With his combination of size and speed, Woods is the type of player who can uplift the Commanders defensive line Day 1.
Other first round options for the Commanders: Rueben Bain Jr. (EDGE), David Bailey (EDGE), Mansoor Delane (CB)
New York Jets:
The Jets have two first-round picks and two second-round picks in the 2026 NFL Draft after big trades at the NFL Trade Deadline. One of those stars they traded away who they need to replace is Quinnen Williams. With either one of their first-round picks, the Jets could be in prime position to land Woods, who has the size and similar ability as Williams coming out of college. As a big, interior force, Woods could serve as an anchor in a revamped Jets’ defensive line.
Other first round options for the Jets: Fernando Mendoza (QB), Carnell Tate (WR), Dante Moore (QB)
Chicago Bears:
The Bears are currently drafting outside of Woods’ projected range, but he would be a perfect fit in Chicago as the team will look to replace 33-year-old Grady Jarrett. Woods in the middle of the line will give them more youth and athleticism as well as a player who can create pressure on the quarterback. Unless the wheels fall off and the Bears miss out on the playoffs, they would probably need to trade up for Woods. But, if he somehow falls, a great pick for the Bears.
Other first round options for the Bears: Caleb Banks (DL), Kayden McDonald (DL), A.J. Haulcy (S)