A couple of former Clemson standouts have made a major impact on their new NFL teams so far during the 2026 season.

ESPN’s NFL Nation reporters named the best offseason addition from each team’s roster heading into Week 8, and a pair of Clemson pros made the list.

Defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence was named as the best offseason addition for the Cincinnati Bengals.

After being acquired via a blockbuster trade with the New York Giants this past offseason, Lawrence has been a dominant force on the interior of Cincinnati’s defensive line.

The 6-foot-5, 350-pounder has earned an 87.6 overall PFF (Pro Football Focus) grade over his first six games of 2026, which ranks second among 126 qualified interior defensive linemen.

A three-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro, Lawrence has registered 18 total tackles, seven tackles for loss, four sacks, seven quarterback hits and a pass defended.

“Is there any question? Lawrence has been the game changer the Bengals were hoping for when they traded a first-round pick for him this offseason,” ESPN’s Ben Baby wrote. “Whether it has been his ability to be an elite run defender, command double-teams to free up others in one-on-one situations or win as a pass rusher, Lawrence has been effective in every area. According to ESPN Research, he ranks fourth in pressure rate among defensive tackles (10%). He’s also tied for first among DTs with four sacks.”

Meanwhile, offensive tackle Blake Miller was named as the Detroit Lions’ best offseason addition.

The 6-foot-6, 320-pounder was the first Clemson player to come off the board in April’s NFL Draft, when the Lions selected him in Round 1 with the No. 17 overall selection.

According to PFF, Miller has played 347 offensive snaps on the season, and his PFF pass-blocking grade of 76.0 ranks 16th among 71 qualified offensive tackles. He has allowed 12 total pressures in pass protection, including zero sacks and just two hits allowed to opposing pass rushers.

“Detroit drafted Miller as the No. 17 pick to be a Day 1 starter, and the 22-year-old has lived up to the hype,” ESPN’s Eric Woodyard wrote. “He took on star edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson during training camp, and he hasn’t allowed a sack in five games this season (primarily at right tackle). Meanwhile, Detroit’s offense is producing the second-most points in the league (30.67 per game) behind the Bills (32.83). Miller still has room to grow, as he has committed five penalties this season.”

Lawrence and the Bengals (4-2) host the Tennessee Titans on Sunday in Week 8 of the NFL season, while Miller and the Lions (4-2) welcome in the Minnesota Vikings.