Jermod McCoy is drawing more attention than most cornerbacks in the 2026 NFL Draft class, and the reason extends beyond his game film at Tennessee. A subtle yet compelling link to Patrick Mahomes, the Kansas City Chiefs quarterback, has kept his name in discussions as draft season approaches.
Shared Roots in Tyler, Texas
McCoy and Mahomes both hail from Tyler, Texas, and crossed paths long before the NFL spotlight. Both attended Whitehouse High School, a program recognized for producing multi-sport athletes. Mahomes graduated in 2014 as a dual-sport standout, while McCoy arrived years later. However, the connection endured through community ties and shared coaching circles. Notably, Patrick Mahomes Sr., the former MLB pitcher and Mahomes' father, coached McCoy in baseball.
Social Media Moment Sparks Interest
A key moment occurred in February 2026 during the NFL Combine. McCoy posted a throwback photo with Mahomes on social media, originally taken during their early school days. Mahomes reposted it around the same time, igniting fresh interest among fans and analysts tracking draft prospects. The timing was particularly significant, as McCoy is recovering from a torn ACL sustained during offseason training in January 2025.
Earlier, during the 2020 Super Bowl media week, McCoy had wished Mahomes luck in a post that resurfaced among draft analysts. While a simple gesture, it highlighted the early admiration McCoy held for the Chiefs quarterback before entering college football.
On-Field Performance and Recovery
McCoy built his reputation at Oregon State before transferring to Tennessee, where he demonstrated strong coverage skills and ball tracking ability. His 2024 season included four interceptions and consistent pass breakups before the injury halted his momentum. NFL scouts now weigh both his production and recovery timeline. Some projections still place him late in the first round, with teams like the Kansas City Chiefs holding mid-to-late picks. This has fueled speculation about a potential reunion, though no team has made a definitive move.
Draft Outlook
For now, McCoy's draft stock sits in a tight range. However, the Mahomes connection keeps his name active in NFL conversations, especially as teams revisit his upside ahead of the April 2026 draft.
