Tennessee standout WR makes career altering decision after failing to be selected in NFL Draft
Context:
Bru McCoy, a standout wide receiver for Tennessee, made a significant decision to medically retire from football after not being selected in the NFL Draft, following a severe ankle injury. Initially expected to be a major force for the Volunteers and projected as an NFL draft pick, McCoy's career was altered when he fractured his right ankle in a game against South Carolina. Despite his injury, McCoy continued to demonstrate unwavering commitment to the team, participating in games and contributing through blocking and other roles. His choice to retire, although difficult, marks him as a 'what if' story, highlighting the impact of his injury on his professional prospects. McCoy's legacy remains significant at Tennessee, with his resilience and dedication leaving a lasting impression on the program and its supporters.
Dive Deeper:
Bru McCoy was a highly anticipated player for the Tennessee Volunteers, expected to be a significant contributor and a potential NFL draft pick, especially after a successful first year.
A severe injury occurred during a game against South Carolina, where McCoy fractured his right ankle, which dramatically altered his career trajectory and draft prospects.
Despite the setback, McCoy showed remarkable resilience and commitment by continuing to play for Tennessee, even though he lacked some physical capabilities post-injury.
McCoy's decision to medically retire was announced with a heavy heart, emphasizing his gratitude and the difficulty of leaving the sport he loved.
His story is considered a 'what if' scenario, acknowledging the potential he had for an NFL career if the injury had not occurred, yet highlighting his enduring impact on the Tennessee football program.
The Tennessee football program became the center of attention in college football when Nico Iamaleava made the surprising decision to leave, feeling the need to move on. For a week, his character was harshly criticized and dragged through the mud. Now, he finds himself at UCLA—a move that brings the California native much closer to home. Meanwhile, Tennessee will turn to UCLA transfer Joey Aguilar.
However, the main topic of conversation in Knoxville is Bru McCoy. The wide receiver from California was expected to be a major force for the Volunteers, and he delivered in his first year with the program. In his second year, he was projected to be an NFL Draft pick—until everything changed. In a game against South Carolina, McCoy suffered a severe injury, fracturing his right ankle.
The injury could have ended his career, but McCoy, known for his toughness, refused to give in. Through all the highs and lows, he remained a true Volunteer, displaying unwavering commitment throughout the past season.
At times, it was clear he didn’t have the same physical tools he had before the injury, but he still took pride in doing the dirty work—like blocking the man in front of him. McCoy had a real chance of being drafted, but ultimately, he was not selected. On Tuesday night, he made a career-defining announcement:
“It’s with a heavy heart but a feeling of gratitude that I share with you guys that I made the difficult decision to medically retire from football,” McCoy announced.
The beloved Vol will go down as a what if story. Had he not been injured against South Carolina, there's a good chance he’d be in the NFL right now, heading into his second year. The decision to retire is never easy, but he made an everlasting impact on Rocky Top.