Josh Heupel Provides Injury Update on Jermod McCoy: What It Means for Tennessee Football in 2025
The Tennessee Volunteers’ football program received an unwelcome blow in early 2025 when All-SEC cornerback Jermod McCoy suffered a significant injury that threatens to impact the start of the team’s campaign. Head coach Josh Heupel addressed the situation during media availability this offseason, providing insight into McCoy’s status, recovery timeline, and how the team plans to adjust in his absence.
This article dives deep into what happened, how it affects the Volunteers defensively, and what the road ahead looks like both for McCoy and Tennessee football
In mid-January 2025, during personal training back home in Texas, Jermod McCoy tore his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). The injury did not occur during team drills or practice but was the result of an unfortunate movement while conditioning independently.
This is an especially frustrating setback for a player coming off a breakout year and on track for a potential early-round NFL Draft selection.
Coach Josh Heupel later confirmed the injury in a press briefing:
McCoy emerged as one of the premier defensive backs in college football during the 2024 season. A former 4-star recruit, he recorded:
- 4 interceptions
- 13 pass breakups
- 35 tackles
- 1 defensive touchdown
These stats earned him All-SEC honors and recognition as a potential All-American in 2025. According to PFF (Pro Football Focus), he was ranked the No. 2 cornerback in the country at the time of his injury.
McCoy was not only a statistical standout—he was the emotional and schematic anchor of the secondary. His ability to cover top receivers in man-to-man schemes allowed defensive coordinator Tim Banks to run aggressive fronts.
Coach Heupel, known for his candid yet optimistic coaching style, emphasized his support of McCoy during his injury recovery:
Heupel added that while McCoy’s absence would be felt, he fully expects a return either late in fall camp or early in the season, depending on rehab progress.
Based on standard recovery periods for ACL injuries, McCoy is projected to return within 7–9 months, which puts him on track for a possible return during the early SEC slate in September or October.
With McCoy sidelined for spring and possibly early fall, the Vols will have to reshuffle their secondary. Expected replacements and key contributors include:
- Rickey Gibson III – Returning junior with starting experience
- Jalen McMurray – Temple transfer who brings size and length
- Kaleb Beasley – Promising sophomore with upside
While none match McCoy’s skill level, the added reps during spring and fall will give this group valuable experience.
Without a shutdown corner like McCoy, Tennessee’s defense may need to dial back aggressive blitzing, relying more on zone concepts and support from safeties like Christian Charles and Jourdan Thomas.
Tim Banks will likely simplify coverage packages until his top corner is back to full speed.
The 2025 Volunteers have playoff aspirations. Coming off a 10–3 season and a Citrus Bowl win, expectations in Knoxville are sky-high. Losing McCoy—even for a few weeks—could have consequences, especially with an early matchup against SEC rival Georgia in Week 4.
As a returning starter and one of the team’s most respected voices, McCoy’s absence leaves a temporary leadership gap. Coach Heupel has challenged older players to step into that void, particularly fellow defensive backs and linebackers.
According to team sources, McCoy underwent surgery within 10 days of the injury and immediately began rehabilitation. Team trainers, orthopedic specialists, and strength staff have created a customized plan to bring him back gradually but efficiently.
His progress is being closely monitored, and early signs are reportedly positive.
Even off the field, McCoy remains involved. During spring practice, he was seen mentoring younger players, attending meetings, and studying film.
Heupel and his staff acted quickly in the offseason, securing Temple cornerback Jalen McMurray and North Texas safety Darian Thompson, both expected to contribute immediately. McMurray, in particular, could start opposite Gibson until McCoy returns.
The Vols’ approach appears to be centered on surviving September and peaking by October, when SEC play intensifies. If McCoy is back to full speed by then, Tennessee could field one of the top secondaries in the conference.
Heupel’s response to McCoy’s injury has once again highlighted Tennessee’s focus on player development, not just as athletes but as people. The family atmosphere—often talked about in recruiting pitches—is clearly present.
Players are encouraged to stay engaged, even when sidelined. McCoy is a model of this culture
At the same time, Heupel is fiercely competitive. There is no pity in the Vols’ locker room. Instead, the message is clear: We support our guys—but we also keep moving forward.
Tennessee’s first five games of the 2025 season:
- Week 1 – vs. Ball State
- Week 2 – at NC State
- Week 3 – vs. South Carolina
- Week 4 – vs. Georgia
- Week 5 – at Mississippi State
McCoy’s absence for any of these—particularly Weeks 3 and 4—could challenge Tennessee’s ability to defend elite passing attacks. But if he returns for the Georgia or Mississippi State games, it could be a huge lift.
Despite the injury, McCoy remains a strong NFL Draft prospect. Scouts are less concerned with a torn ACL today than in decades past, as recovery science has advanced rapidly. Assuming a full return, McCoy could still be a first or second-round pick in 2026.
Most national media outlets have praised Tennessee for how they’ve handled the situation, especially how McCoy’s rehab is being supported and how transparently the coaching staff is addressing it.
Jermod McCoy’s injury is a storyline that could define part of Tennessee’s 2025 campaign. For the Volunteers to reach their lofty goals, they’ll need to weather the early-season storm and hope McCoy can return close to full strength.
Coach Josh Heupel, ever the optimist but always grounded in reality, is confident. Confident in McCoy’s recovery. Confident in his depth. And confident that the Vols are still on track to compete at the highest level of college football.
