Tennessee football’s defensive duo, Jermod McCoy and Colton Hood, captured attention in the latest ESPN NFL mock draft, with both players projected to join the Los Angeles Rams in the first round. NFL Draft analyst Field Yates has McCoy being selected at No. 13, followed closely by Hood at No. 29, which could mark a historic moment as it would be the first time a team has drafted two players from the same school at the same position in the first round since the common draft era began in 1967.
Yates emphasized the Rams’ need for strengthening their secondary, stating, “A double-dip at cornerback for the Rams? This move merits consideration given the overall strength of their roster and the vulnerability of their secondary.” Previously, ESPN’s Matt Miller also highlighted both players’ potential, with McCoy anticipated at No. 11 to the Miami Dolphins and Hood at No. 13 to the Rams in his mock draft earlier this week.
In Mel Kiper Jr.’s rankings, McCoy is recognized as the No. 16 overall prospect and the top cornerback, while Hood is positioned as the No. 6 cornerback. Both players, along with others from Tennessee like Chris Brazzell and Joshua Josephs, have received invites to the NFL Scouting Combine set for February 23 to March 2 in Indianapolis.
McCoy’s trajectory has seen him hailed as a top-10 pick due to his exceptional talent, despite suffering a torn ACL in early 2025. Yates noted, “McCoy is a wild card… He’s a long, confident cover corner who stood out in 2024.” During his breakout 2024 season, McCoy racked up 44 tackles, nine passes defended, and four interceptions.
Meanwhile, Hood built on his reputation after transferring from Colorado, recording an impressive 50 tackles, eight passes defended, and even scoring a touchdown by returning an interception and a fumble. He became a vital player for the Volunteers, compensating for McCoy’s absence during the 2025 season.
As teams assess their rosters ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft, which runs from April 23 to 25 in Pittsburgh, the potential of McCoy and Hood stepping onto the field together for the Rams has fans and analysts alike excited about the impact they could have in professional football. This draft could very well be a defining moment for Tennessee football and a showcase of its burgeoning talent.