Missouri has ascended into one of the better SEC programs over the past few seasons. The Tigers are 29-10 since 2023, thanks in large part to strong defenses. Missouri has multiple defensive prospects worth following in the 2026 NFL Draft. Zion Young and Josiah Trotter project as day-two selections. While Young and Trotter have generated some buzz this draft cycle, Missouri defensive tackle Chris McClellan has flown under the radar. McClellan has steadily improved throughout his collegiate career and impressed at both the Senior Bowl and NFL Combine. What are his strengths and weaknesses as a prospect, and how early can he be picked in April?
2026 NFL Draft: Chris McClellan Player Profile
Measurables
Height- 6-foot-4
Weight- 313 pounds
Background
McClellan was a four-star recruit coming out of Owasso (Oklahoma) and was the 12th-ranked defensive line prospect in the Class of 2022. He committed to Florida, where he spent two seasons as a rotational defensive tackle. As a true freshman, McClellan had 23 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, and a fumble recovery. He maintained his production in 2023, making 23 tackles while having a tackle for loss and half a sack.
After two seasons as a rotational player in Gainesville, McClellan hit the transfer portal. He landed at Missouri and saw an increased role on the defensive line. McClellan made nine starts and appeared in all 13 games his first season in Columbia. He totaled 39 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, and 2.5 sacks while forcing a fumble and breaking up two passes. McClellan’s best season to date came in 2025, as he emerged as a premier player on the Tigers’ defensive line. He racked up 48 tackles, eight tackles for loss, six sacks, and two pass breakups in 13 games. McClellan posted a 78.2 PFF grade, good for eighth-best in the SEC.
Strengths
McClellan has the ideal frame for an NFL interior defensive lineman, measuring at 6-foot-4 and 313 pounds. He has a strong first step off the line of scrimmage, winning early on reps. His production as an interior pass rusher is impressive, having 8.5 sacks over the past two seasons. McClellan is also a solid run defender, displaying good instincts to maintain his gap and find the ball carrier. He has the power needed to win on bull rushes and excels in one-on-one situations. McClellan plays with a high motor, showing excellent effort and playing through the whistle.
Weaknesses
While McClellan is an all-around defensive tackle, there are areas of his game that can use improvement. He plays with a higher pad level, which makes it harder for him to shed blocks at times. Although his bull rush is strong, McClellan struggles with counter moves when raw power isn’t enough to win a rep. Improving his array of pass-rush moves will be key for him to reach his full potential. He also struggles against double teams, regularly being pushed out of the play.
Overview
McClellan is a well-rounded prospect who brings value as a pass rusher and as a run defender. He has the frame and power needed to thrive at the next level. His sack production from the interior defensive line is rare, making him an exciting mid-round prospect. If McClellan can improve his counter moves as a pass rusher, he can be a steal for whichever team drafts him. He has played at various spots along the defensive line, but fits best as a 3-tech in the NFL. McClellan is projected as a fourth-round pick, but his stock is rising, and he could be selected on day two. The Bears and Ravens are ideal landing spots, with both needing to improve their interior defensive lines.