Tennessee CB Jermod McCoy Linked to Vikings in Round 1

A top draft analyst believes the Vikings could target the talented cornerback with their first-round pick.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 8:06pm

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According to Dane Brugler of The Athletic, the Minnesota Vikings could select Tennessee cornerback Jermod McCoy with their first-round pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. McCoy's draft stock has been rising rapidly, and some believe he may not even be available when the Vikings are on the clock at pick No. 18.

Why it matters

The Vikings have struggled to find consistent cornerback play in recent years, and McCoy could provide a significant upgrade to their secondary. His combination of size, speed, and ball skills make him an intriguing prospect, though his recent ACL injury is a concern.

The details

Brugler's full seven-round mock draft has the Vikings selecting McCoy in the first round, followed by Texas Tech defensive tackle Lee Hunter in the second round and several other promising prospects throughout the rest of the draft. McCoy is widely regarded as the second-best cornerback in this year's class, trailing only Mansoor Delane from LSU.

  • McCoy suffered a torn ACL in January 2025 while at Tennessee.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft is set to take place in just seven days.

The players

Jermod McCoy

A 20-year-old cornerback from the University of Tennessee who is considered one of the top prospects at his position in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Dane Brugler

A prominent NFL draft analyst for The Athletic who has released a comprehensive seven-round mock draft, including projecting Jermod McCoy to the Minnesota Vikings in the first round.

Byron Murphy Jr.

A cornerback currently on the Minnesota Vikings' roster who could be impacted by the potential addition of Jermod McCoy.

Isaiah Rodgers

Another cornerback on the Minnesota Vikings' roster who could see his playing time affected by the team potentially drafting Jermod McCoy.

James Pierre

A cornerback on the Minnesota Vikings' roster who could face increased competition for playing time if the team selects Jermod McCoy in the draft.

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What they’re saying

“McCoy is a tough player to project in a mock draft — some teams are comfortable with his 2025 knee injury, while others won't consider him in the first round. I don't know how the Vikings feel, but adding his level of talent to a Brian Flores defense would be fun to watch.”

— Dane Brugler, NFL Draft Analyst

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.