Hoosier Huddle

Tennessee Selects Pat Coogan with the 194th Pick of the NFL Draft

A group of football players celebrating, with one player prominently flexing their muscles and raising their arms in a triumphant pose, wearing a red Indiana jersey with the number 78.
Jan 19, 2026; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Indiana Hoosiers offensive lineman Pat Coogan (78) celebrates after defeating the Miami Hurricanes in the College Football Playoff National Championship game at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Offensive lineman Pat Coogan is the seventh Hoosier to be taken in the 2026 NFL Draft, as the Tennessee Titans selected him with the 194th overall pick in the sixth round. This ties a school record for most players selected in a single draft (1976). Coogan started all 16 games for the national champions after transferring from Notre Dame. He helped lead the Irish to the national title game in 2024.

What the Titans are Getting?

Coogan is a natural leader, and the Hoosiers could not have accomplished what they did without him. His work ethic and smarts helped him anchor one of the best offensive lines in the country

Coogan is a veteran center with good size, intelligence, communication skills and leadership that will appeal to offensive line coaches. He’s technically sound and is consistent in centering opponents while latching in with grip strength to increase stickiness. He’s best in a gap scheme and inside zone, but his effectiveness can fade when the job stretches beyond the A-gaps. In protection, he lands well-timed punches and utilizes instinctive hand resets to regain positioning. However, forward lean and shorter arms will invite counters. Coogan has the potential to become a starter, but there are limitations in his game that make scheme fit and protection help important.– Lance Zierlein NFL.com

What is Coogan’s 2026 Outlook?

Coogan will have to develop into a starter. As stated above, he works better in certain schemes, but if developed well he can become a starter down the road. 

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