A big question entering the season.
The Tennessee cornerback room could be a strength for Tim Banks in 2025, but there’s a very large wildcard in that situation. Of course, it’s the health of standout Jermod McCoy, who became the unquestioned No. 1 corner for the Volunteers last season.
McCoy tore his ACL back home in Texas training in January. Since then it’s been about getting back in time for the August 30th opener, which has been a major question all offseason long.
Josh Heupel updated the situation this week at SEC Media Days.
“I saw him the other day as he’s going through his rehab,” Heupel said. “He looks really good, his movement skills are good. It’s a progression throughout the course of the end of the summer and through training camp. And we’ll figure that out as we get into the season.”
McCoy came to Tennessee after a big true freshman season at Oregon State. The overlooked recruit immediately looked like he belonged in SEC play, making big interceptions against Oklahoma, Alabama and Vanderbilt. He’s now regarded as perhaps the top cornerback in the country and a likely first-round pick if he can back up his sophomore season.
McCoy is expected back at some point this season, but the exact when remains a mystery.
“I think with the injury and his rehab process, it’s how he encounters the next phase, and next stage as he continues to prepare himself and get ready to play,” Heupel said.
“Obviously we want him, he’s a huge part of us defensively, but his short term and long term health is as well.”
Tennessee did bring in some insurance, adding former Colorado cornerback Colton Hood. Hood was also coming off of a big freshman season where he was credited with six pass breakups and two interceptions playing opposite of Travis Hunter. Rickey Gibson will also return to his starting role.
With that said, Tennessee doesn’t have to rush McCoy here. But they certainly would love to have him back in the lineup ahead of the SEC opener against Georgia in mid-September.