Tennessee’s Jermod McCoy earns a spot on the PFF Preseason All-America Team, highlighting his standout performance and potential as a key player for the Vols.

As the 2025 college football season approaches, the Tennessee Volunteers have been making waves, not just for their offensive firepower and recruiting success, but also for the standout individual performances that have garnered national attention. One such player who has risen to prominence is Jermod McCoy, who recently earned a well-deserved spot on the Pro Football Focus (PFF) Preseason All-America Team. This recognition is a testament to McCoy’s exceptional talent, his consistency on the field, and the high expectations surrounding him as a pivotal player for Tennessee in 2025.

McCoy’s inclusion on the PFF Preseason All-America Team is a significant honor, but it also speaks to a broader narrative of growth and potential within the Tennessee program. The Vols have made tremendous strides in recent years under head coach Josh Heupel, and McCoy’s recognition reflects the program’s continued ascent to national relevance. In this article, we will explore McCoy’s journey to becoming a Preseason All-American, his impact on Tennessee football, and what his recognition means for the Vols in 2025.

Jermod McCoy: The Rise of a Star

Jermod McCoy’s rise to prominence within Tennessee football didn’t happen overnight. Like many elite college football players, his success has been the result of hard work, a commitment to development, and a natural ability that has made him one of the most feared players at his position. McCoy’s journey began in high school, where his standout athleticism and versatility quickly caught the attention of college scouts.

A native of Georgia, McCoy was a highly sought-after recruit, praised for his blend of size, speed, and football IQ. As a defensive lineman, he demonstrated the ability to disrupt the line of scrimmage, generate pressure on quarterbacks, and be a force against the run. His high school film showed a player with a relentless motor, an impressive first step, and a natural ability to read the game.

When McCoy committed to Tennessee, it was clear that he had the potential to make an immediate impact. However, what separated McCoy from many other high-profile recruits was his work ethic and his willingness to learn and improve. He wasn’t just content with his raw talent; he wanted to hone his skills to become the best version of himself. This mindset paid off in a big way during his first few years at Tennessee.

McCoy’s breakout season came in 2023, where he quickly established himself as one of the most disruptive defensive players in the SEC. His ability to get to the quarterback, as well as his effectiveness in stopping the run, made him a key piece of Tennessee’s defensive unit. By the end of the season, McCoy had put together an impressive highlight reel, filled with sacks, tackles for loss, and key defensive plays in critical moments.

McCoy’s Strengths: What Makes Him Special

Jermod McCoy’s selection to the PFF Preseason All-America Team can be attributed to several key strengths that make him a standout player in college football. These attributes not only showcase his individual talent but also underscore his potential as a game-changer for Tennessee’s defense.

1. Pass Rush Ability

One of McCoy’s most impressive skills is his ability to get after the quarterback. In a league like the SEC, where dominant quarterbacks are the norm, a strong pass rush is critical. McCoy’s speed off the line, his quickness in beating blockers, and his ability to close in on quarterbacks make him a dangerous edge rusher. Over the course of the 2023 season, McCoy racked up multiple sacks, and his pressure on opposing quarterbacks was often the difference in key moments.

McCoy’s pass-rushing prowess is fueled by his natural explosiveness and strong technique. His ability to time the snap and use his first step to explode off the line has made him a nightmare for offensive linemen. Whether he’s coming off the edge or working inside, McCoy has shown he can wreak havoc in the backfield, a skill that will only become more refined as he continues to grow.

2. Run Defense

While McCoy is known for his ability to rush the passer, his effectiveness against the run is just as valuable to Tennessee’s defense. His size and strength allow him to be a force in the trenches, shedding blockers and making plays in the backfield. Whether it’s a running back trying to find a hole or a quarterback attempting to escape pressure, McCoy is a constant presence, capable of stuffing runs and keeping offensive plays from gaining significant yardage.

McCoy’s ability to control the line of scrimmage is key to Tennessee’s defensive scheme. By anchoring the defensive front and taking on multiple blockers, he frees up his teammates to make plays and creates a more disruptive defensive front. His attention to detail and commitment to stopping the run are traits that have made him a complete defensive player.

3. Football IQ and Versatility

Another factor that sets McCoy apart is his football IQ. While raw athleticism is essential, McCoy’s ability to read offenses, anticipate plays, and make adjustments on the fly has made him one of the most well-rounded players on Tennessee’s defense. He understands how to leverage his physical attributes in different situations, whether it’s using power to bull rush an offensive lineman or using finesse to outmaneuver blockers.

McCoy is also incredibly versatile, able to line up at various positions along the defensive line. His ability to play multiple roles allows Tennessee’s defensive coaches to get creative with his usage. He can rush from the outside or the interior, giving the Vols the flexibility to disguise blitzes and create mismatches against opposing offenses. This versatility makes him even more dangerous, as offensive coordinators can never be sure where McCoy will line up or how he will attack.

Impact on Tennessee’s 2025 Season

McCoy’s inclusion on the PFF Preseason All-America Team not only reflects his individual excellence but also signals the high expectations for Tennessee’s defense in 2025. After a solid but inconsistent performance in 2023, Tennessee will look to take the next step and become a more well-rounded and dominant team in the SEC. McCoy is a crucial piece of that puzzle.

With McCoy anchoring the defensive line, Tennessee’s defense has the potential to become a top-tier unit in the conference. The Vols have made significant strides under defensive coordinator Tim Banks, and McCoy’s presence will provide a much-needed boost in the front seven. As Tennessee looks to challenge for an SEC title and compete on a national stage, McCoy will be a player to watch.

1. Leadership and Influence on Teammates

As a key player on Tennessee’s defense, McCoy will also be expected to step into a leadership role. His experience and success on the field will make him a natural leader for younger players, and his work ethic will set the tone for the entire defense. As Tennessee continues to build depth and improve its roster, McCoy’s leadership will be invaluable in keeping the defense focused and motivated.

2. Key Matchups and Impact Games

For Tennessee to compete at the highest level in 2025, McCoy will need to step up in critical games against some of the toughest competition in the SEC. The Vols will face off against powerhouse programs like Alabama, Georgia, and LSU, all of whom possess high-powered offenses. McCoy’s ability to generate pressure, stop the run, and disrupt opposing quarterbacks will be crucial in these matchups.

In games against high-ranking teams, McCoy will need to be a constant force, forcing turnovers, pressuring quarterbacks, and creating havoc in the backfield. If McCoy can elevate his game in these key matchups, Tennessee’s defense will have a much better chance of keeping the Vols in the hunt for an SEC championship.

3. National Championship Aspirations

If Tennessee is to make a legitimate run at a national championship, the defense will need to improve, and McCoy will be at the center of that effort. The Vols’ high-powered offense is already a force to be reckoned with, but to compete with the best of the best, Tennessee will need a defense that can stand up to the elite offenses in college football. McCoy is poised to lead that effort and could be one of the key players who makes the difference in a potential national title run.

 Jermod McCoy’s Bright Future with Tennessee

Jermod McCoy’s inclusion on the PFF Preseason All-America Team is a recognition of his hard work, talent, and potential as one of the premier defensive players in college football. For Tennessee, it’s a sign that the program is on the rise and ready to make waves in 2025. As a dominant force on the defensive line, McCoy will be critical to the Vols’ success as they aim for an SEC title and a spot in the College Football Playoff.

McCoy’s journey from a highly touted recruit to a Preseason All-American is a testament to his development and the direction of Tennessee football under Josh Heupel. With McCoy leading the charge on defense, Tennessee has the chance to take another step forward as a program and prove that they are among the nation’s elite. As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on McCoy and his impact on Tennessee’s defense, making him one of the most exciting players to watch in the SEC.