Injury concerns cloud Jermod McCoy’s draft stock after first-round slide originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The first round of the NFL Draft came and went without Jermod McCoy hearing his name called, leaving one of the more intriguing defensive back prospects still on the board — and raising questions about just how far he could fall.
McCoy’s slide is not rooted in a lack of talent. In fact, his 2024 season at Tennessee Volunteers football showcased a player with clear NFL-caliber traits. He led the team with 13 passes defended and tied for the lead with four interceptions, consistently demonstrating strong instincts and ball skills. His ability to read receivers’ breaks and time his pass disruptions made him a reliable presence in coverage, while his awareness in zone schemes allowed him to anticipate throws and react quickly.
At his best, McCoy plays with a calm, controlled style. He reads the quarterback effectively, breaks on the ball with confidence, and shows a willingness to attack passing lanes rather than simply shadow receivers. His length and frame make him competitive in contested situations, often winning 50-50 balls against opposing wideouts. Combined with his balance and physicality at the top of routes, he’s difficult to shake in man coverage.
However, the primary reason for his first-round absence is clear: durability concerns. McCoy tore his ACL in January 2025, an injury that forced him to miss the entire season. For NFL teams, especially those investing early picks, availability is often just as important as ability. The missed year leaves evaluators with limited recent tape and lingering questions about his recovery timeline and long-term explosiveness.
Despite that uncertainty, McCoy’s traits remain enticing. He has the speed to run vertically with receivers, the instincts to make plays on the ball, and the physical tools to match up against bigger targets. Those qualities typically translate well to the next level, suggesting his fall may not last much longer.
As Day 2 unfolds, McCoy becomes one of the most compelling names to watch. Teams willing to bet on his recovery could land a high-upside defensive back at a discounted value — a risk that, if it pays off, could look like one of the steals of the draft.