Clemson defensive tackle Peter Woods declared for the 2026 NFL Draft on Tuesday, becoming the second Tigers underclassman in 24 hours to announce his departure.
The junior has been projected as a first-round selection. He made his decision public on social media, thanking his family, teammates and Clemson community for their support.
“I am excited to announce that I will be declaring for the 2026 NFL Draft,” Woods wrote. “It has been an honor to wear the paw these last few years, and it will always be a part of me, but the time has finally come.”
Woods was a five-star recruit and freshman All-American in 2023. He entered the 2025 season with expectations but posted a quieter junior campaign statistically.
He finished with 40 tackles, including 3.5 for loss, and two sacks this season.
Over his Clemson career, Woods recorded 59 tackles (11 for loss), three sacks and two forced fumbles across 23 games. The production numbers don’t tell the full story of his NFL potential.
Clemson DL Peter Woods is entering the NFL draft. He was No. 5 on the Freaks List. He figures to test well in the draft process. He squatted 700 pounds and power cleaned 385, ran a 4.86 40-yard dash and vertical jumped 33 inches last offseason: https://t.co/EHum0qnN3Y
— Bruce Feldman (@BruceFeldmanCFB) December 9, 2025
Despite average production this fall, Woods remains one of the most physically gifted prospects in the upcoming class. Bruce Feldman ranked him No. 5 on his annual “Freaks List.”
Those numbers include a 490-pound bench press and 700-pound squat. Woods also ran a 4.86-second 40-yard dash and recorded a 33-inch vertical jump at 310 pounds.
The Alabama native said his gratitude extended well beyond football.
“To my Clemson family: Thank you for welcoming a young kid from Alabama with open arms,” he wrote. “I wouldn’t be the man or player I am today were it not for this culture.”
Woods’ declaration continues an offseason of departures for Clemson. The Tigers are losing key contributors as they prepare for the 2026 season.
