Jermod McCoy seems to be following a path similar to Shedur Saunders.
Despite being a first-round pick in numerous mock drafts, primarily due to a knee injury that sidelined him for the entire last season, McCoy is now unlikely to be chosen in the first three rounds of the 2026 NFL Draft. This means he could be available for the Bills at pick No. 101 when selections continue on Saturday.
Since the draft commenced, there’s been increasing chatter suggesting that his medical evaluations revealed more issues than were initially shared a few weeks ago.
This situation is reminiscent of Saunders, who was a first-round projection but ultimately dropped to the fifth round in 2025. Concerns about his mindset were significant for the team.
Consequently, McCoy is now the leading candidate among the best players still available for the fourth round.
Here’s a rundown of the scouting reports for each, along with their original rankings from the Post’s Top 75 Big Board:
1. CB Jermod McCoy, Tennessee, 6-1, 188 (16)
His 2024 stats feature four interceptions, showcasing that he could have stood out as the top cornerback if he had played last season. He exhibits impressive reading skills and spatial awareness in zone coverage. After suffering an ACL tear in January 2025, he should have no restrictions moving forward. He excels in downfield situations where penalties can happen. It’s as if we might need to do a “cat interview”—you know what I mean?
2. CB Keionte Scott, Miami, 5-11, 193 (54)
At 25, he’s a rookie who can adapt, switching seamlessly between nickel and safety roles. He’s a versatile player, and few defensive backs recorded 13 tackles for loss last season. When not blitzing, he’s adept at wrapping up receivers to minimize yards after the catch. His energy is quite infectious.
3. QB Garrett Nussmeyer, LSU, 6-2, 203 (65)
This fifth-year senior has cautioned against remaining on the sidelines for his final game. He has a bit of a daredevil’s approach, which might surprise those who know he’s the son of the Saints’ offensive coordinator. His interception rate dropped in 2025, and he’s even crafted a new throwing angle. Plus, he was the MVP at the Senior Bowl.
4. S Jaron Kilgore, South Carolina, 6-1, 210 (69)
He’s a tough player who can take on powerful backs and matches tight ends’ physicality in passing situations. He’s best when paired with a range-free safety and is effective at cleaning up missed tackles. With a total of eight interceptions, he’s demonstrated his skills.
5. WR Ilya Surratt, Indiana, 6-3, 210 (71)
He’s like a North Star for his rookie class, having followed James Madison’s coach Kurt Cignetti. Known as “Waffle House” for his reliability, this former basketball star attacks the ball like it’s an offensive rebound. He shines on third downs but doesn’t really pose a big threat for yards after the catch.
7. CB Chandler Rivers, Duke, 5-9 1/2, 185 (73)
With a keen football IQ, he sometimes runs routes for the receivers himself. He excels at intercepting poorly thrown passes from zone coverage. Adding to his value, he can perform special teams duties. Will he struggle against big receivers in the run game? He has over 3,500 snaps under his belt.
8. RB Mike Washington Jr., Arkansas, 6-1, 223 (75)
He clocked a 4.33-second 40-yard dash at the combine—one of the fastest for anyone over 220 pounds in the last two decades. He averaged 6.4 yards per carry last season and is a physical runner who can also help in the passing game.
9. LB Kyle Lewis, Pittsburgh, 6-0, 220 (unranked)
A smaller but highly productive player, he recorded 15.5 tackles for loss and four interceptions in 2024. He possesses a great football IQ and loves studying tape, although he sometimes struggles to get off blocks. He’s capable of making significant plays in key situations and offers versatile options for creative tactics.
10. Skyler Bell, UW, 6-0, 192 (NR)
This Bronx native completed a 40-yard dash in 4.4 seconds, showcasing remarkable speed. Last season, he ranked among the top in the FBS with 101 catches, totaling 1,278 yards and 13 touchdowns. He’s a tempo-driven route runner who finds openings in zone coverage, though he’s not built for taking heavy hits.
