The NFL Draft is defined by unforgettable moments and powerful stories. For every prospect, it represents the culmination of a lifetime of work—the chance to finally hear their name called.
Yet not every story unfolds as expected. Some players enter the process with sky-high expectations, only to slide far later than projected. Others face the very real possibility of going undrafted.
Tennessee standout cornerback Jermod McCoy became one of the most compelling—and unfortunate—stories of the 2026 NFL Draft. After missing the entire 2025 college football season, McCoy suffered a knee injury in January that cast serious doubt over his future.
MORE: 5 most improved NFL franchises after Day 2 of Draft
Before the injuries, evaluators widely projected him as a top-five pick. Since then, concerns surrounding his knee caused his draft stock to tumble and raised multiple red flags.
Still, McCoy’s long wait finally ended on Day 3. With the 101st overall pick, the Las Vegas Raiders selected him, bringing closure to a difficult chapter.
Now, McCoy has a place to continue his recovery. If he returns to form, he has the talent to become one of the biggest steals in the draft.
On the field, McCoy is a true do-it-all cornerback. He thrives in press coverage and shows strong instincts in the zone schemes commonly used across the NFL.
MORE: 5 NFL Draft Day 2 picks who could be immediate contributors
McCoy began his collegiate career at Oregon State before transferring to Tennessee, where his standout 2024 season established him as one of the nation’s top cornerbacks.
A torn ACL sidelined him for the entire 2025 season, but he still surprised many by declaring for the draft rather than returning for his senior year.
Since then, he has navigated a series of medical setbacks that left some questioning whether he would hear his name called at all.
Now, McCoy can focus fully on his rehabilitation, secure in his place with the Raiders. For the Texas native, the journey has been long and difficult—but at last, the wait is over.