The NFL Draft is just around the corner, kicking off in Pittsburgh next week, and the buzz is building for Tennessee fans. While this year's event is imminent, it's never too early to look ahead. A recent seven-round projection for the 2026 NFL Draft has five former Vols hearing their names called, signaling a bright future for the program's pipeline to the pros.

This continued success is a testament to the culture Head Coach Josh Heupel has built in Knoxville. "I think they know what they're getting out of a guy from here," Heupel stated at Pro Day, emphasizing the accountability, consistency, and football IQ that have become trademarks of Tennessee players. With 17 Vols drafted in the Heupel era and 391 all-time selections, that reputation is carrying significant weight in NFL war rooms.

So, which Vols are forecasted to make the leap in 2026? The mock draft paints an exciting picture, headlined by two potential first-round defensive backs. Jermod McCoy is projected to land with the Dallas Cowboys at pick No. 20, while Colton Hood is slotted to the New England Patriots at No. 31. The offensive talent gets its due in the second round, with wide receiver Chris Brazzell II projected to the Atlanta Falcons at No. 48.

The Vols' defensive line also gets representation, with Joshua Josephs forecasted as a third-round pick (No. 76) for the New Orleans Saints. Wrapping up the projections, Bryson Eason is seen as a seventh-round selection (No. 224) for the Pittsburgh Steelers. For fans and aspiring players alike, seeing these projections fuels the dream and showcases the high-level talent developing in Tennessee orange.