Full Breakdown
Day 3 of the 2026 NFL Draft: Jermod McCoy’s Fall and the Raiders’ Value Picks
4/26/2026, 9:21:42 PM
Jermod McCoy’s Day-3 Selection by the Las Vegas Raiders
The Las Vegas Raiders traded up one spot on the fourth round of the 2026 NFL Draft to select cornerback Jermod McCoy at No. 101 overall. The Tennessee-born defensive back, a 2024 first-team All-SEC player, had been projected as the No. 1 defensive back and the sixth-overall prospect before the draft.
Background & Context
McCoy missed the entire 2025 season after a knee injury. Initial reports cited a torn ACL; later details described a cartilage defect requiring extensive rehabilitation. The medical concerns caused his stock to slide from the first day to the third, despite a 4.3-second 40-yard dash at his pro day.
Data & Statistics
- CBS Sports ranking: No. 1 defensive back, sixth overall prospect.
- Draft position: 101st overall (fourth round).
- 40-yard dash: 4.3 seconds (pro day).
- Raiders also drafted Mike Washington Jr. (Arkansas) in the fourth round; his 4.33-second 40-yard dash was the fastest among running backs at the combine.
- Edge rusher Tyree Wilson recorded 12.0 sacks in 50 games over three seasons before being moved to the New Orleans Saints.
- Navy running back Eli Heidenreich finished his career with 1,994 receiving yards, the Midshipmen’s all-time record. He was selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers.
- LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier was taken No. 249 overall (seventh round) by the Kansas City Chiefs.
- The Raiders exchanged McCoy and a 2026 seventh-round pick for a 2026 fifth-round pick used on safety Dalton Johnson (Arizona).
Official Statements & Responses
- The Raiders announced the trade of McCoy to the Saints, noting the acquisition of a fifth-round pick to address depth at safety.
- The Chiefs confirmed Nussmeier will compete with Justin Fields for a backup role behind Patrick Mahomes.
- Las Vegas highlighted its $305.6 million free-agency spending and the hiring of offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, with first-overall pick quarterback Fernando Mendoza leading the roster.
- The Steelers’ front office described Heidenreich as a “utility gadget” prospect who could contribute in both backfield and slot roles.
Criticism & Opposition
Analysts expressed concern that McCoy’s cartilage defect could lead to future surgery, potentially limiting his availability. Tyree Wilson’s limited production after being a top-10 pick was cited as a cautionary example of draft risk. Nussmeier’s spinal cyst, while not requiring immediate surgery, raised questions about his long-term durability. Heidenreich’s transition from a triple-option offense to a pro-style system was noted as uncertain.
On-the-Ground Report
During his first media appearance, McCoy reflected on the draft process, describing it as “definitely difficult” but emphasizing his belief that “God has a plan for me.” He added that he was “truly blessed that the team took me anyway.”
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the precise nature of McCoy’s knee injury: one cites a torn ACL, while another specifies a cartilage defect requiring extensive rehab. No public timeline for his full recovery has been provided.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Yeah, I mean, it’s definitely difficult for me, but I know God has a plan for me.” — Jermod McCoy, Draft prospect
- “Because, I mean, it’s not in my control, and I’m just truly blessed that the team took me anyway, because it’s an achievement to get here in the first place.” — Jermod McCoy, Draft prospect
What’s Next
McCoy is slated to report to Raiders training camp in August, where his health will be closely monitored. The Raiders aim to integrate him into a secondary that has shown inconsistency in recent seasons. Meanwhile, the Chiefs, Steelers, and other teams will evaluate their Day-3 selections during preseason preparations.
