Raiders Kick Off Final Draft Day by Selecting Corner Jermod McCoy from Tennessee

Jermod McCoy’s long wait in the NFL draft concluded swiftly on Saturday. The Las Vegas Raiders selected the Tennessee cornerback with the first pick of the fourth round, taking a chance that McCoy can return to form after missing the entire previous season due to a torn ACL. McCoy recorded six interceptions over 25 games with the Volunteers and Oregon State, where he started his college career in 2023 before transferring to Tennessee. He sustained his injury during offseason workouts in January 2025, shortly after the Vols' loss in the College Football Playoff. “I was prepared for whatever happened, but, I mean, I would’ve been excited to go higher, for sure,” McCoy reflected. “I had a good pro day, ran some good times... it’s not in my control.” The Raiders aim for McCoy to enhance a defense that struggled to create turnovers during a challenging 3-14 season in 2025, finishing with only eight interceptions in 17 games, ranking 25th in the league. This pick also reunites McCoy with top overall pick Fernando Mendoza. McCoy’s first collegiate interception came against Mendoza at Oregon State when Mendoza played at California. “It was probably one of the top moments in my life,” McCoy said. Feeling motivated by the draft's earlier rounds passing him by, McCoy expressed, “I feel like I learned about myself... I feel I’m super mentally strong.” Additionally, Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik also found a home, being selected by the New York Jets with the 110th pick after a challenging season. The final day of the NFL's offseason festival commenced with NFL commissioner Roger Goodell announcing record attendance figures, with over 600,000 fans present at Acrisure Stadium despite rainy conditions. Drew Allar, a surprising third-round pick from Penn State, expressed his excitement about joining the Pittsburgh Steelers, aiming to win games for the fans.

Source: The Guardian Sport - 2026-04-25