What's Happening?
The Tennessee Volunteers have made a significant impact in Daniel Jeremiah's 2026 NFL Mock Draft, with two of their defensive backs projected to be top 12 picks. Jermod McCoy is expected to be selected
by the Cincinnati Bengals at No. 10, while Colton Hood is projected to go to the Dallas Cowboys at No. 12. McCoy, despite missing the 2025 season due to injury, is highly regarded for his 2024 performance, while Hood is praised for his readiness to start immediately in the NFL. Additionally, Tennessee has two more prospects, wide receiver Chris Brazzell and edge rusher Joshua Josephs, who are projected as Day 2 selections, highlighting the program's depth and talent.
Why It's Important?
The prominence of Tennessee Volunteers in the NFL draft underscores the program's growing reputation for developing NFL-ready talent, particularly in their defensive secondary. This recognition can enhance the program's recruiting efforts, attracting top high school talent who aspire to play in the NFL. For the NFL teams, acquiring players like McCoy and Hood could significantly bolster their defensive capabilities, addressing critical needs in their secondary. The Volunteers' strong presence in the draft also reflects positively on the coaching staff's ability to develop players to meet professional standards.
What's Next?
As the draft process continues, the performances of these players in upcoming evaluations, such as the NFL Combine and Pro Days, will be crucial in solidifying or improving their draft positions. NFL teams will closely monitor their physical and mental readiness, potentially influencing their final draft decisions. For Tennessee, maintaining this momentum in player development will be key to sustaining their reputation as a breeding ground for NFL talent.
