Jermod McCoy: A Cornerback to Watch in the NFL Draft
Tennessee cornerback Jermod McCoy is turning heads as a first-round NFL draft prospect, and for good reason. Despite missing the entire 2025 season due to a torn ACL, McCoy has been cleared to play and is eager to prove himself on the field.
Scouts have been quick to highlight McCoy's athleticism, ball skills, and proficiency in press coverage. His ability to disrupt plays and his instincts make him a standout candidate for any team looking to bolster their secondary.
Miami Dolphins Eyeing McCoy
In Indianapolis, the buzz around McCoy is palpable, with the Miami Dolphins considering him as a potential Day 1 starter. Holding the 11th overall pick, the Dolphins are in a prime position to select McCoy, provided they are comfortable with his recovery from injury.
McCoy himself is confident in his readiness. "I feel good now, ready to play again," he shared at the NFL Scouting Combine. Although he opted out of workouts at the combine, he plans to showcase his skills at his Pro Day, ensuring he's at peak performance.
Learning from the Best
McCoy has studied the likes of Texans cornerback Derek Stingley and Steelers defensive back Jalen Ramsey. "Their ball skills, just how they attack the ball in the air," McCoy noted. He aims to emulate their ability to become the receiver when the ball is in the air.
At 6-foot and 193 pounds, McCoy brings both size and agility to the table. His background as a former triple- and long-jumper only adds to his athletic profile.
Strengths and Areas for Growth
McCoy's strengths are clear: he's a playmaker with a knack for stepping up when it counts. "I'm not afraid to stick my head in there and make a tackle," he said, emphasizing his relentless approach.
NFL analysts like Lance Zierlein and Daniel Jeremiah have praised his smooth hips and feet, which allow for seamless lateral transitions and efficient coverage. However, they note that McCoy can sometimes lose poise on deep routes and needs to refine his tackling technique.
Draft Outlook
Projected as a first-round pick, McCoy is a popular choice for the Dolphins at No. 11. The team is in need of a top-tier cornerback, and McCoy fits the bill as a complete player despite his previous injury.
While the Dolphins currently have Jason Marshall and JuJu Brents as their leading cornerbacks, McCoy could be a valuable addition without the need for a significant free-agent investment.
As the draft approaches, all eyes will be on McCoy's Pro Day performance and whether the Dolphins decide to make him their cornerstone in the secondary.