There’s only one NFL draft decision that seems certain for the Tennessee Vols so far
Several Tennessee Vols players have NFL draft decisions to make over the next few weeks.
Several Tennessee Vols players have NFL draft decisions to make over the next few weeks.
So far, no one on Tennessee’s roster has announced their intentions to declare for the 2026 NFL Draft.
Those decisions, however, will need to be made soon so the Vols’ coaching staff can properly address roster holes via the NCAA transfer portal in early January (that’s another issue with the current December calendar).
One player that seems to have an easy decision is cornerback Jermod McCoy.
McCoy, a former Oregon State defensive back who transferred to Tennessee in 2024, is being projected as a top 20 pick, despite not playing in 2025 due to a torn ACL.
The Athletic’s Dane Brugler currently has McCoy going to the Dallas Cowboys with the No. 16 overall selection.
“Since he’s coming back from an ACL tear, McCoy hasn’t produced any 2025 tape to evaluate,” wrote Brugler. “However, his 2024 tape was outstanding, and he will be more than a year removed from his injury by the NFL Scouting Combine. Dallas has never been shy about taking chances on players coming off injury.”
There’s a long way to go until the 2026 NFL Draft, and opinions will change based on the NFL scouting combine and other pre-draft events, but nearly every early mock draft has McCoy getting selected in the top 20. The decision to go pro seems like a no brainer for the Texas native.
Other Tennessee Vols players that have NFL draft decisions to make
Tennessee has four other players with legitimate NFL draft decisions to make.
Junior linebacker Arion Carter is viewed as an early day two selection by Brugler. Carter still has room for improvement, but his athleticism and competitiveness will be attractive to NFL teams.
Redshirt junior wide receiver Chris Brazzell had a massive season for the Vols (62 receptions for 1,017 yards and nine touchdowns) and the assumption by many is that he’ll declare for the draft. ESPN’s Mel Kiper, however, doesn’t currently have Brazzell ranked among his top 10 wide receivers in the draft. Still, it would be a surprise if Brazzell returns to Rocky Top in 2026.
Redshirt sophomore cornerback Colton Hood could get into the first round conversation after a stellar debut season with the Vols. It would also be a surprise to see him back next fall.
Junior left tackle Lance Heard is another player that could leave early for the draft. Heard would probably benefit from sticking around at Tennessee for another season of development. But he would likely be a day two selection if he declares, so he’ll have a decision to make.
It’s possible that other Tennessee players could consider leaving early for the NFL, but these are the for-sure draft decisions that will be considered over the next few weeks.
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