Last week, the Tennessee Volunteers landed 3-star transfer cornerback Colton Hood from the Colorado Buffaloes.
Although his rating does not jump out on paper, Hood is a critical acquisition for Tennessee, considering the Vols lost four defensive backs to the transfer portal this offseason. Hood is also the only DB the Volunteers picked up this offseason, so he will likely get significant playing time in 2025.
Colton Hood
Colton Hood joins the Volunteers with three years of eligibility. The redshirt sophomore cornerback began his career with the Auburn Tigers in 2023, playing in four games before redshirting at the end of the season.
In 2024, Hood transferred to Colorado, where he played alongside Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter. He appeared in 13 games and started in one game. Although Hood was not a full-time starter, he was still a significant contributor to the Buffaloes’ defense.
After Hunter suffered an injury against Kansas State, Hood stepped up and had a breakout game. During the matchup, Hood recorded his first interception of the season, which led to an offensive touchdown for Colorado that gave them the lead late in the fourth quarter.
Hood also had an impressive outing against the Arizona Wildcats, limiting future No. 8 overall pick Tetairoa McMillan to only 38 receiving yards. In addition, Hood finished the game with three tackles and secured his second interception of the season.
Hood finished the season with 24 tackles, two interceptions, and six pass breakups. Interestingly enough, Hood accumulated 105 interception return yards, averaging 52.5 yards per pick. Those return yards were the 13th-most among college players in 2024, and both of his picks were nearly touchdowns.
Hood’s ability to move the football should not be a surprise, considering he also played running back, wide receiver, and quarterback in high school. In 2022, Hood was named Region 5-2A Athlete of the Year in Georgia. Not only did he play multiple positions in high school, but he also played several sports. He played basketball, ran track, and was a two-time all-state centerfielder in baseball.
The former 3-star recruit also has a family legacy in football. His uncle, Roderick Hood, was a defensive back at Auburn who spent eight seasons in the NFL. In addition, his brother, Brandon Hood, played alongside him at Colorado last season and served as the team’s backup running back.
Given Hood’s athletic upside and past performances, how will he help Tennessee’s defensive backfield in 2025?
Hood’s Impact on the Vols’ Secondary
Unfortunately, the Volunteers lost several defensive backs after last season, including breakout safety Will Brooks, whom the Kansas City Chiefs picked up as an undrafted free agent. In addition, Tennessee lost four defensive backs to the transfer portal:
- Christian Harrison (S) → Cincinnati Bearcats
- John Slaughter (S) → Colorado Buffaloes
- Christian Charles (S) → Virginia Cavaliers
- Jakobe Thomas (S) → Miami Hurricanes
Considering the Vols lost a sizeable amount of depth in the secondary, Hood will be a key member of Tennessee’s defense. He will also help take some of the load off All-American cornerback Jermod McCoy, recovering from a torn ACL last season.
It is also fair to mention that Hood was coached by Deion Sanders, who was arguably the most decorated defensive back in NFL history. He also practiced with Travis Hunter daily, so Hood has more experience than his playing time shows.
Speaking of experience, Hood also has SEC experience through his time with Auburn. He is a much-needed piece to Tennessee’s secondary, and don’t be surprised if he has a breakout season.
This will likely be Hood’s first time as a full-time starter, and as long as he stays healthy, his potential is limitless.
