Former Vol listed as NFL draft best available player after first round

The NFL draft kicked off Thursday with the first round in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza was selected No. 1 overall by Las Vegas.

The Jets drafted Texas Tech defensive lineman David Bailey with the second pick, while Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love was selected No. 3 by Arizona. Tennessee drafted Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate and Buckeyes' linebacker Arvell Reese was the final pick in the top five to the Giants.

The Vols did not have a player drafted in the first round. The second and third rounds will be held Friday. After Thursday's first round, Tennessee defensive back Jermod McCoy is listed as the best available player remaining in the NFL draft by ESPN .

McCoy was at Tennessee from 2024-25 after transferring from Oregon State. He recorded 44 tackles, 0. 5 tackles for a loss, four interceptions, 71 interception yards, 13 pass deflections, six punt returns and 59 punt return yards in 13 games during the 2024 season.