ESPN Draft Expert Highlights Former Vol as Top Senior Bowl Prospect

Tennessee cornerback Colton Hood draws high praise from NFL Draft analyst Matt Miller ahead of the Senior Bowl showcase.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 3:55pm

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ESPN NFL Draft expert Matt Miller has identified former Tennessee cornerback Colton Hood as the top prospect in attendance at this week's Panini Senior Bowl in Mobile, Alabama. Miller praised Hood's size and talent, noting he sits at #18 on his overall draft board and could be a big riser in a cornerback class with some question marks at the top.

Why it matters

Hood's strong performance at the Senior Bowl could continue his rapid rise up NFL draft boards, potentially making him a first-round pick. As one of three former Tennessee players participating, a standout week for Hood would be a major boost for the Volunteers' NFL pipeline.

The details

After transferring to Tennessee last season, Colton Hood emerged as one of the SEC's top cornerbacks, holding opposing passers to just 28 completions on 53 targets for 318 yards and 1 TD. His size, coverage skills, and playmaking ability have scouts intrigued, with some projecting him as high as a top-15 selection in the upcoming NFL Draft.

  • The 2023 Panini Senior Bowl will take place on Saturday, January 27, 2026.
  • Prospects like Colton Hood will go through practices and workouts on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday leading up to the game.

The players

Colton Hood

A former cornerback for the University of Tennessee who is considered one of the top prospects at the 2026 Senior Bowl.

Matt Miller

An ESPN NFL Draft expert who is covering the Senior Bowl events and has identified Colton Hood as the top prospect in attendance.

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What they’re saying

“Tennessee cornerback Colton Hood — wearing No. 27 — is the top prospect on my board in attendance this year. He sits at No. 18 overall on my board. Definitely looks the part in person. Could be a big week for him in a CB class with question marks at the top (injury, size).”

— Matt Miller, ESPN NFL Draft Expert

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Colton Hood's standout performance at the Senior Bowl could cement his status as a first-round NFL Draft pick, further boosting Tennessee's reputation for producing top defensive back talent. In a cornerback class with some uncertainty, Hood has a chance to separate himself as one of the premier prospects.