Cornerback Jermod McCoy possesses the ideal physical attributes that NFL scouts seek in a premier outside cornerback for the 2026 NFL Draft. While injuries have raised some concerns about his draft value, he continues to receive high praise from numerous NFL evaluators.
NFL Veteran Evaluates Jermod McCoy’s Skills Amid Cowboys Speculation
An NFL defensive coach offered phenomenal remarks about McCoy, according to SleeperNFL. “Really fluid, poised and calm in coverage, never see him panicked or out of phase, doesn’t have to strain to make plays,” the coach said.
While McCoy’s abilities on the field are heavily praised, questions about his health continue to linger, as he lost crucial development time at a major stage of his career. The cornerback missed the entire 2025 season due to an ACL injury sustained in January of that year.
MORE: National Commentator Warns NFL About Jeremiyah Love Ahead of Draft
If he had been able to play, McCoy’s presence could have provided a significant boost to Tennessee’s defense, which struggled in his absence. The unit finished last season with a 73.2 score in the PFSN College Football Defense Impact Metric, ranking 79th nationally.
However, McCoy is still regarded as the most talented cornerback prospect to enter the NFL since Derek Stingley Jr. in 2022. His combination of natural athleticism and instincts gives scouts reason for optimism.
McCoy earned second-team All-America honors and was a semifinalist for the prestigious Thorpe Award in his first season with the Volunteers in 2024. He recorded 34 tackles, four interceptions, and 13 passes defended that season.
McCoy also worked to alleviate lingering concerns about his knee at Tennessee’s pro day last month. He posted a 4.38-second 40-yard dash, a 38-inch vertical jump, and a 10-foot-7-inch broad jump.
According to ESPN draft analyst Matt Miller, McCoy’s pro day performance has put him back in contention as potentially the top cornerback in the 2026 draft. In his most recent mock draft, PFSN analyst T.J. Randall projects McCoy to be selected by the Dallas Cowboys with the 12th overall pick.
“Clemson corner Avieon Terrell was the choice here in my last iteration. Unfortunately, the recent news of his hamstring aggravation intensifies the repeat selection until its severity is further clarified,” Randall wrote.
MORE: Ryan Day Makes Feelings Clear on Coaching Son RJ Day–‘Very Hands-on’
“Even if Terrell had performed diligently, it was likely to be Jermod McCoy following his stellar Pro Day performance that seemingly answered all health-related questions, in addition to the stellar film he displayed in 2024.”
Meanwhile, the Carolina Panthers are set to host McCoy on Friday, April 10, according to Jeremy Fowler of ESPN. The visit is fueling discussions about where the top cornerback prospect could land.
