As expected, Tennessee football star cornerback Jermod McCoy is headed to the NFL. The widely projected first-round pick made the decision official on his Instagram on Wednesday night.
McCoy began his career at Oregon State before transferring to Tennessee. In his first year with the Vols, he burst onto the scene as a breakout star and potentially the best defensive back in the country. After the sophomore season, some said he would’ve been the first defensive player off the board in that draft if he were eligible.
However, McCoy suffered an ACL tear in January, which forced him to sit out for the majority of the off-season. While he returned as a limited participant in practice just ahead of the season, he was never cleared to make a return to game action, despite his best efforts.
Even though he didn’t play a snap this season, McCoy is still expected to be one of the first defenders drafted and could go as high as a top-15 selection.
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Here is his full statement:
View this post on Instagram
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“Dear Vol Nation,
“First, I want to thank God for blessing me with the ability and opportunity to play this game at the highest level. And even though my time on the field was cut short, I will be forever grateful for my time here at the University of Tennessee. It has been a true honor, and I’m appreciative for every moment I had in the orange and white.
“To my coaches and the entire coaching staff – thank you for believing in me, developing me, and pushing me every day.
“To the academic staff – thank you for supporting me in the classroom and helping me grow beyond the field.
“To my teamates – my brothers – thank you for the battles, the laughs, and the bond we built.
“To my family – thank you for your love, sacrifice, and constant support. Without you, I’m not sure where I would be.
“And to the fans – thank you for embracing me and showing me love from day one.
“Thank you to everyone who has given me the opportunity to chase this dream. I will forever be indebted. With that said, I am officially declaring for the 2026 NFL Draft.
“GBO,
“Jermod McCoy”
