Mel Kiper reveals latest intel for key Tennessee prospects ahead of NFL Draft
By Rolando Rosa
Published:
The upcoming 2026 NFL Draft should have strong representation from Tennessee. On Day 1, ESPN’s Mel Kiper revealed the latest intel for some key Volunteer prospects.
Kiper is reporting that cornerback Colton Hood is gaining significant traction as a first-round pick. In ESPN’s mock draft, Hood is slated to go No. 29 overall to the Kansas City Chiefs.
Two of the hottest names coming out of my calls around the league: Tennessee cornerback Colton Hood (appears to be a solid first-rounder now) and Texas A&M guard Chase Bisontis (could sneak in late in Round 1).
The 6-foot, 195-pound Hood had 34 solo tackles, a forced fumble, an interception and eight pass breakups last season.
Meanwhile, Kiper claims that cornerback Jermod McCoy could fall to the second round, while edge rusher Joshua Josephs might slide to Day 3.
Four prospects might be losing a little ground late in the process. Tennessee cornerback Jermod McCoy might slip to Round 2 as he comes off a torn ACL. Two Texas A&M teammates — receiver KC Concepcion (injuries, drops) and edge rusher Cashius Howell (shorter arms) — also seem like Day 2 guys now. And Tennessee edge rusher Joshua Josephs might now be a Day 3 prospect.
The 6-foot, 193-pound McCoy amassed 26 solo tackles with four interceptions and seven pass breakups last season. The 6-foot-3, 240-pound Josephs had 17 solo tackles with four sacks, three forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, and two pass deflections.
Last season, Tennessee had four players drafted, led by edge rusher James Pearce Jr. going No. 26 overall to the Atlanta Falcons.
