And the first Tennessee Vol is off the board as Colton Hood becomes the 37th overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft, going to the New York Giants. Tennessee is now officially on the board this draft season.
Tennessee fans react as Jermod McCoy slips down the NFL Draft
Hood began his college career at Auburn, where he only played four games. After his freshman year, he transferred to Colorado, where he broke out with six passes defended and two interceptions. He then transferred again and made his way to Rocky Top, where he stepped up mightily when Jermod McCoy went down with an ACL tear last January.
Hood was an absolute gamer for the Vols last fall. By far, he was Tennessee’s most reliable player in the secondary, and his play on the field has paid dividends, landing him at the top of the second round.
Colton Hood was a stud in Knoxville
The Giants are getting a very good cornerback in Colton Hood. Last season at Tennessee, he was a third-team All-SEC selection with 8 passes defended, 1 interception, 1 forced fumble, 50 tackles, and 4.5 TFLs.
Assessing the draft choice, the thing I like most about Hood is his ability to play physical press coverage and be a menace while in man coverage, which is just what New York wants. He is just barely under 6 feet tall and right around 195 pounds. He has the strength and size to compete against NFL wide receivers. Plus, Hood isn’t afraid to get his nose dirty and help out in the run game, a very valuable trait in cornerbacks. He doesn’t have any glaring weaknesses in his game, which makes him such a valuable prospect. Not to mention at the combine, he checked all the boxes with his speed, size, and explosiveness.
Looking ahead, Hood should have a very good NFL career based on his hard-working pedigree and overall ability. He may never be a superstar, but he will be a very solid addition for years to come. New York is a good landing spot for Hood, as they have a new defensive coordinator, Dennard Wilson, and he will fit the new Giants defensive scheme with his press-man game.
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