Porter Jr. showed clear improvement in 2025, but the Steelers still face the perennial offseason question of who will start opposite him at cornerback. Pittsburgh has pursued veteran help in recent years, yet the Stillwater tradeoffs of experience versus development remain a topic of debate.
Terrell’s college résumé underscores his playmaking potential. He earned 2025 All-ACC First Team honors, set Clemson records for forced fumbles in a season (five in 2025) and career (eight from 2023-25), and led the nation among cornerbacks in forced fumbles from 2023-25. Scouts praise his agility, quick feet, and ability to close in short zones.
NFL analysts note Terrell’s fit as a potential slot corner who can contribute as a blitzer and in the run game, while acknowledging possible challenges outside against larger receivers. With Porter Jr. already established, Terrell could provide much-needed youth and a development path without immediately displacing the starter.
The Steelers have trended away from first-round cornerbacks in recent drafts—only one first-round cornerback in the last 28 classes (Artie Burns, 2016)—and the McCarthy era adds another layer of uncertainty about how aggressively Pittsburgh would invest in a defensive back in the top pick. If Rodgers isn’t part of the equation, a defensive playmaker remains a possibility.
Terrell’s profile also carries pedigree. NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein notes Terrell’s athletic testing and coverage polish, comparing him to a ready-to-start contributor due to ball skills and versatility, and cites his bloodlines alongside brother A.J. Terrell of the Falcons as a plus. If he lands in Pittsburgh, his NFL-ready traits and playmaking could make him a compelling fit opposite Porter Jr.
