Colton Hood Reflects on Tennessee Football Journey During Pro Day

The defensive back transfer shared his heartfelt emotions about his one season with the Volunteers.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 2:06am

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Colton Hood, a defensive back transfer who spent one season with the Tennessee Volunteers, opened up about his time in Knoxville during the team's Pro Day event. Hood, who previously played at Auburn and Colorado, expressed his deep appreciation for the Tennessee program and its passionate fan base, saying 'I don't think people understand how much Rocky Top means to me.'

Why it matters

Hood's comments provide a glimpse into the impact that the Tennessee football program can have on its players, even those who are transfers. His words highlight the strong connection that can develop between student-athletes and the university, as well as the loyalty and support of the Volunteer fanbase.

The details

During Tennessee's Pro Day, where 14 players participated in drills and workouts in front of NFL scouts, Hood shared his reflections on his single season with the Volunteers. The defensive back, who totaled 50 tackles, 1 forced fumble, 1 interception, and 8 pass breakups in 2025, expressed his deep gratitude for the university and its fans. 'This is just a great place. An amazing place and I'll say to any recruit out there, like you give your all for Rocky Top, they are going to love you back,' Hood said.

  • Tennessee held its annual Pro Day on March 31, 2026.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place from April 23-25.

The players

Colton Hood

A defensive back who transferred to Tennessee for the 2025 season after previously playing at Auburn and Colorado. He had a standout year for the Volunteers, totaling 50 tackles, 1 forced fumble, 1 interception, and 8 pass breakups.

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What they’re saying

“It's meant a lot, like, I mean, I don't think people understand how much Rocky Top means to me. It's just like, just the love from the fans, just everything. You know, this in totality, all the people. This is just a great place. An amazing place and I'll say to any recruit out there, like you give your all for Rocky Top, they are going to love you back.”

— Colton Hood, Defensive Back

What’s next

The 2026 NFL Draft will be held from April 23-25, where Colton Hood and other former Tennessee players will look to hear their names called and begin their professional careers.

The takeaway

Colton Hood's heartfelt comments about his time at Tennessee demonstrate the powerful impact that the university and its passionate fanbase can have on student-athletes, even those who are transfers. His words highlight the strong sense of community and loyalty that the Volunteer program fosters, which could be an appealing factor for future recruits considering joining the Tennessee football team.