Well, here we go. It’s time to start ranking the best players in the ACC for the 2026 season.
As usual, we hope you enjoy the rankings.
Previous and Upcoming Rankings
Quarterbacks | Running Backs | Wide Receivers | Offensive Linemen | Tight Ends | Linebackers | Cornerbacks | Safeties | Special Teams
1) Clev Lubin, Louisville
Louisville quietly has some of the best talent in the ACC on both sides of the ball. Now we have the Cardinals with the best defensive lineman in the league in Clev Lubin. Lubin goes into 2026 with All-American buzz. Last season, he had 8.5 sacks with over 50 tackles coming off the edge for Louisville. He’s considered a mid to late 1st round NFL talent.
2) Ahmad Moten Jr. , Miami
Miami featured some of the best defensive line talent in the nation last year. I would expect some drop off, but with players like Ahmad Moten Jr. returning it may not be much. The 6-3 325 LB interior lineman is just a wall inside, as last year he just missed being All-ACC 1st team. Some NFL Draft projections have him going among the top 15 players in the 1st round.
4) Will Heldt, Clemson
If Dabo Swinney could find more Will Heldt, he’s hit the transfer portal harder. Heldt was a pickup last year out of Purdue that arguably turned into Clemson’s best, most consistent performing defensive lineman in 2025. Last year, he had nearly 50 tackles, 15.5 tackles for loss, and 7.5 sacks. He’ll be looked upon this year to be the anchor of the Clemson defense as he heads towards a 1st or 2nd round draft grade.
4) Melkart Abou Jaoude, UNC
UNC, despite its record last year, has some talented players. Melkart Abou Jaoude was one of them. He was a 2nd-team All-ACC player in 2025. Jaoude had 10.5 sacks last year to go along with 47 tackles. He’s been a productive defensive lineman his entire career, and is drawing mid to late round NFL interest as he tries to move up with a big 2026.
5) Kemari Copeland, Virginia Tech
James Franklin is having to upgrade the talent at Virginia Tech, but he does inherit some quality players. Franklin is feeling good that Kemari Copeland, a holdover from the previous staff, is returning. The 3rd team All-ACC player had 48 tackles with 7.5 tackles for loss in 2025. He’s considered one of Virginia Tech’s most draftable players.
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