While it's still a bit up in the air when Jermod McCoy is going to get back on the field, Tennessee football fans can definitely relax knowing there's some needed experience ready to help lead the group until he's back. That'd be Colton Hood, who transferred in from Colorado.
Throughout the offseason and early on at camp, we've heard nothing but good things about Hood from Josh Heupel and the coaching staff. Hood knows there's going to be some added pressure on him, but that's the way he likes it. If anything, he's hoping to pay Tennessee back for taking a chance on him, as playing in the SEC is something he's not taking for granted:
Colorado transfer DB Colton Hood on coming to Tennessee: I saw an SEC school that made the playoffs last year and a dominant SEC defense. I knew I had to take advantage of that opportunity.
— GoVols247 (@GoVols247) August 11, 2025
New Tennessee CB Colton Hood is ready to make a splash in the SEC this fall
Just seeing those words from Hood posted by Go Vols 247 has got to bring a smile to your face. If anything, it is another example of Heupel bringing in players who not only want to be at Tennessee, but know that it's an honor to don an orange jersey.
It also helps that Hood is a pretty talented defensive back and he'll be ready to make an impact as soon as Week 1 arrives. Originally coming out of high school, Hood signed with Auburn as a member of the 2023 class. His time with Hugh Freeze didn't last long.
The CB ended up transferring to Colorado in 2024, spending one season with Deion Sanders in Boulder. Last campaign, the 6-0, 195-pounder finished with two interceptions and 24 total tackles, while also adding six pass deflections.
With McCoy still a little banged up and working his way back from his torn ACL, it's got to be comforting for Heupel and DC Tim Banks knowing that Hood is there to take charge. Once those two are on the field together, it will be a problem for opposing offenses trying to throw the ball on the Vols. Getting Hood on board continues to be a crucial addition for Tennessee.