Clemson cornerbacks Ashton Hampton and Elliot Washington II receive NFL Draft praise

ESPN NFL Draft expert Mel Kiper Jr. has highlighted Clemson cornerbacks Ashton Hampton and Elliot Washington II following their performances in a 24-10 victory over Cal. Kiper identified Hampton, a junior, as a potential first-round lockdown cornerback, noting his ability to disrupt routes at the line of scrimmage and his strong recovery speed. Washington, a senior, was praised as an outstanding playmaker and a likely Day 2 selection after recording two interceptions in the game against Cal.

Ashton Hampton enters upcoming matchups, including a contest against No. 4 Miami, with significant confidence. Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney has referred to the junior cornerback as a ‘superstar.’ Hampton expressed readiness to compete against high-level talent, such as Miami wideout Malachi Toney, viewing the challenge as an opportunity to showcase his skills.