T.J Parker is a powerful edge rusher out of Clemson University, with a crafty bag of pass rush tricks. Parker has an ideal length at the edge position at 6’4”, 265 lbs. The third-year rusher uses his strength to forklift offensive linemen into the quarterback’s lap, and has counters to match every pass protection style. Parker plays naturally low to the ground, which allows him to win the leverage battle effortlessly. He also shocks linemen with elite-level hand placement, allowing him to control linemen in whichever direction he chooses. Parker plays with heavy hands and uses a deadly long arm to set up angles to bend corners. He has below-average speed, but his lateral quickness allows him to freeze linemen in their tracks, setting up a power move to disrupt the pocket. Parker’s compact frame allows him to absorb double teams with ease, and he plays with a relentless motor when pursuing the football. Overall, Parker is a crafty pass rusher with a high win rate on third down and is productive in the run game.
Scheme Fit and Team Fit:
Parker fits best in a 4-3 defensive scheme that encourages defensive linemen to get upfield and be aggressive. Parker is a true edge rusher, and the Atlanta Falcons defense would be a perfect fit for him as they need their edges to be juiced up and get home to the quarterback.
NFL Player Comp: Rashan Gary
Projection: High End Starter
Parker projects as a high-end starter because of his ability to get to the quarterback at a consistent rate. He simply wins his 1v1 matchups consistently, and that gets you paid at the next level.
Grade and Round Projection: 5, 3rd Round Pick
Parker grades out as a 5 out of 7 and will be a third-round pick. Injuries are the only concern as he has had knee issues during his career at Clemson, but his tape puts him in the Day 2 conversation automatically.
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