Las Vegas Raiders were seen doing something that doesn’t make much sense while at practice during rookie minicamp
The Las Vegas Raiders have started their rookie minicamp off in a good way, but something can’t go unsaid about what was seen.
The Las Vegas Raiders have a delicate situation on their hands with cornerback Jermod McCoy, so why are we seeing him do what he did at rookie minicamp on Saturday? This is not me questioning the staff, because I believe they know what they’re doing. This is me simply asking why.
McCoy had a knee issue that has been described as one that could keep him from ever seeing a second contract in the NFL. Of course, that’s not definitive, just what someone out there just anticipates. The Raiders felt confident in taking the risk because the reward could be so big. McCoy was once considered the best CB in this class, and a top-ten player, yet Vegas got him in the fourth round.
His being at the rookie minicamp, dressed out in uniform, was already a great sign. He just stood on the side for most of the practice, as he worked with trainers. Seeing him field punts was not something I expected. Then again, it’s good that the Raiders are getting some work in with McCoy, especially football work, not just work that is done on his body.
Raiders could get an elite CB in McCoy
The Raiders traded up to go and get Tennessee CB Jermod McCoy, a first-round talent. The reward is huge, the risk is somewhat big. If they can get a good four years out of him, the risk was well worth it. McCoy can be one of the best CBs in the league if he’s healthy. He was a top-ten player in this draft, but the knee issue dropped him to the Raiders on Day 3.
“Yeah, so confidence was not a problem,” Raiders VP of Player Personnel Brandon Hunt said after the draft. “We felt good about it at where we took him, and it was an opportunity to get value. This is probably arguably the best corner in the draft, and we feel like we have great, great people and a great process to make sure we get the best out of this player.”
Jermod McCoy’s stats in 2024 at Tennessee
(Didn’t play in 2025)
- Pass Deflections (7 year before)
- 44 tackles (.5 TFL)
- 4 Interceptions (2 year before at Oregon State)
McCoy stands under 6’1”, weighs 190 pounds, boasts 31-inch arms, and has exceptional speed. At Tennessee’s Pro Day, he impressed with immediate readiness, clocking a swift 4.37 in the 40-yard dash.
When healthy, McCoy demonstrates length, explosiveness, and fluid athleticism. He combines strong ball skills with physical presence at the catch point. He adapts well to press and off-coverage as he sharpens his technique. Despite missing all of 2025, his youth and inexperience make him a high-risk, high-reward pick. Still, if McCoy can reach his potential, the Raiders’ investment could pay off and reshape their defense for years to come.
