Tennessee football has churned out talent to the NFL in recent years. This upcoming NFL draft, Vols cornerback Colton Hood has positioned himself to be one of the first defensive backs selected.
In an attempt to further climb his way up the draft boards, Hood participated in UT’s Pro Day this week. After a strong showing, he met with the media to discuss his future.
Hood made sure to give a shoutout to Tennessee before he left, though. He noted how much his one season in Knoxville meant to him and offered some advice for any potential newcomers.
“It’s meant a lot,” Hood said. “I don’t think people understand how much Rocky Top means to me. Just the love from the fans, everything, in totality, all the people, just a great place, an amazing place. I’d say to any recruit out there, you give your all for Rocky Top, they’re going to love you back. Definitely just overwhelmed with emotions and how this place helped me and how I want to help this place.”
Colton Hood’s 40-yard dash at UT’s Pro Day ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/elwSQxkLVY
— Ryan Sylvia (@RyanTSylvia) March 31, 2026
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This was Hood’s first season at Tennessee. He began his career as a highly-rated recruit at Auburn before transferring to Colorado the following season. He spent that year under NFL legend Deion Sanders and alongside Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter.
Hood finished this year with 50 tackles, eight passes deflected, a forced fumble, an interception and two touchdowns. He was named to the 2025 All-SEC Second Team by the AP for his year.
Now, Hood is widely projected as a first-round pick. His showing at the combine and Pro Day could help seal that and potentially boost him into the top half of the round, as well.
