Clemson Standout Hopes to End Panthers' Clemson Draft Drought

Peter Woods believes he can be the first Clemson player drafted by the Carolina Panthers in franchise history.

Feb. 25, 2026 at 3:33pm

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Clemson defensive lineman Peter Woods, a projected first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, spoke at the NFL Scouting Combine about the Carolina Panthers' long-standing avoidance of selecting Clemson players over the franchise's history. Woods believes he can be the player to finally end that drought.

Why it matters

The Panthers have never drafted a Clemson player in their franchise history, despite the school's proximity and the success of many Clemson alumni in the NFL. Woods' potential selection could signify a shift in the team's approach and open the door for more Clemson talent to join the Panthers' roster.

The details

Woods, a standout defensive lineman at Clemson, is expected to be a first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. He addressed the Panthers' reluctance to select Clemson players during his media availability at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, expressing his belief that he can be the player to finally end that franchise-long drought.

  • Peter Woods spoke about the Panthers' Clemson draft history at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis.

The players

Peter Woods

A projected first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, Woods is a standout defensive lineman from Clemson University.

Carolina Panthers

The NFL franchise based in Charlotte, North Carolina, that has never drafted a player from Clemson University in its history.

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What they’re saying

“I think I can be the guy to finally end that drought. The Panthers need to take a chance on a Clemson guy, and I believe I'm the right fit for their defense.”

— Peter Woods (heraldonline.com)

What’s next

The Panthers will have the opportunity to select Woods in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft, which takes place in late April.

The takeaway

Woods' potential selection by the Panthers would be a historic moment, as the team has never before drafted a player from the nearby Clemson program. His talent and belief that he can be the one to end the drought could open the door for more Clemson players to join the Panthers' roster in the future.