Tennessee star cornerback Jermod McCoy has officially declared for the 2026 NFL Draft. This is not much of a surprise, as McCoy has been mocked in the first round despite missing 2025 with a torn ACL.
McCoy has been a star since the day he stepped on campus. He didn't miss a beat as a true freshman in 2023, where he put up a stat line of 31 tackles, seven passes defended, and two interceptions. In 2024, McCoy had another impressive year of 44 tackles, seven passes defended, and four interceptions. In January, when McCoy tore his ACL, it was a sad day in Knoxville as many knew it was likely the last time he'd suit up for the Vols.
On Wednesday evening, McCoy posted on his Instagram a heartfelt message to Tennessee fans about his intentions to declare for the draft. It was an emotional letter, as McCoy seemed to have loved his time in Knoxville.
"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 teammates - 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 ! 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 theopportunity to chase this dream. I will forever be indebted. With that said, I am officially declaring for the 2026 NFL Draft.
GBO,
JERMOD McCOY"
BREAKING: Tennessee cornerback Jermod McCoy has declared for the 2026 NFL Draft
— Vol Scoops (@VolScoops) December 10, 2025
“Even though my playing time was cut short, I will forever be grateful for my time here at the University of Tennessee. I’m appreciative for every moment I had in the Orange and White”
VFL 🧡 pic.twitter.com/6FSUrUwR7V
Jermod McCoy declares for 2026 NFL Draft
This day was inevitable for Tennessee fans. It's a bittersweet day, as Vols nation is surely very proud to see McCoy reach his NFL aspirations. On the other hand, it really hurts not being able to see McCoy play another game at Neyland Stadium.
The most unfortunate part is that his time was cut short by the injury. McCoy is one of the most talented defensive backs in next spring's draft. He has a chance to land in the top ten even with missing all of 2025.
One thing is for sure and its that Tennessee fans will be rooting for McCoy wherever he lands in the draft. Congrats Jermod, go be great.