Most of us still wonder why NFL teams passed on Josh Heupel’s key player in the 2025 Draft. We’re talking about Bru McCoy, who emerged as one of the top undrafted wide receivers once the draft wrapped up. Still, somehow, he’s one of the few guys from that top-tier list without a team. The other one, Isaiah Bond, had off-field problems – but McCoy? His case feels different.

Bru McCoy is tough, physical, and was a key part of Tennessee‘s offense. He was not just for catching passes but doing the dirty work – blocking, grinding, making space for his teammates. That’s what makes his free-agent status so confusing. And the reason might be the whispers about his injuries, which have now taken a worse turn for his well-wishers, including Josh Heupel and the Tennessee team.

According to Jordan Schultz on X, “Former Tennessee WR Bru McCoy is medically retiring from football.” Yes! He is just 24. The NFL insider further stated that the reason behind him being snubbed by the league in the draft was this – “My understanding is it was made known during the draft not to select him — and now we know the reason why. McCoy was high school teammates with Bryce Young at Mater Dei, where he was the U.S. Army Player of the Year.”

But after six hard-fought years in college football, he just made the kind of decision that hits you right in the chest. Bru McCoy doesn’t want to retire, but his body gave him no choice. The former Tennessee standout, who started at USC and found a home with the Vols, poured his heart out in a message that felt more like a thank-you letter to everyone who stood by him.

Bru McCoy said, “TO MY FAMILY, FRIENDS, COACHES, TEAMMATES, AND SUPPORTERS, First and foremost I want to thank my family for everything they have invested in me during this journey and always standing by my side while playing the sport that God blessed me to be gifted in the past 18 years. Additionally, thank you to my coaches and teammates throughout the years for support and guiding me every step of the way. 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. This has been one of the toughest decisions of my life, but after careful consideration with my doctors, family, and people closest to me l’ve come to the conclusion that it’s the right path for my long-term health and well-being.”

In this farewell note, Josh Heupel’s star player also talked about fighting back from an injury that nearly ended it all. Also, about how he came back last season, not just for himself, but for Knoxville. Yes, the place that showed him love when he needed it most. It hurt him to walk away, you could tell easily. But he’s doing it with his head high and his heart full. Still, Bru McCoy isn’t done giving back, despite his playing days being over.

Through his nonprofit, McCoy is staying in the fight, teaching CPR and defibrillator training to underserved communities. Bru McCoy is walking into his next chapter with gratitude and a whole lot of heart. After all, the young player has made his name despite no NFL tag.

Bru McCoy had all the skills, but not for the NFL?

Bru McCoy’s football story is nothing short of remarkable. He came in strong at USC, but it was Tennessee where he really left his mark. Over his collegiate career, McCoy amassed 129 receptions for 1,592 yards and nine touchdowns. He showed his versatility and commitment on the field.

Fans still remember that clutch grab against Bama, or how Bru McCoy lit up LSU in ’22. But after a brutal ankle injury in 2023. Demonstrating resilience, he returned in 2024. There, he led Tennessee with 35 receptions and earned a semifinalist spot for the Comeback Player of the Year Award. Despite his on-field success and community involvement, McCoy went undrafted. He, however, participated in the Reese’s Senior Bowl and the NFL Scouting Combine ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft.

But now we know why – health comes first. So, football may be done for Bru McCoy. His impact on his short football career will remain memorable for ages.