![]Cornerback Zech McPhearson. (Photo by John E. Moore III/Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_16,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/02c9a06e7fbe0d7fb3d86117feb9bdc47d69db604575a24c82c4f9c498745a99.jpg "]Cornerback Zech McPhearson. (Photo by John E. Moore III/Getty Images)")
Zech McPhearson
One of the more successful graduate transfers in recent memory for the Texas Tech football program, Zech McPhearson is set for what was supposed to be his final collegiate season in 2020. But now there’s a chance that the corner could be back in 2021 and that would be fantastic for the Red Raiders.
Last season, McPhearson was a full-time starter for the first time in his college football career after being a depth piece at Penn State. And he made the most of his opportunity.
In fact, Pro Football Focus rates him as the second-highest returning corner in the Big 12 heading into this season.
Highest graded returning Big 12 CBs:
— PFF College (@PFF_College) May 1, 2020
1. Kalon Barnes, Baylor - 76.3
2. Zech McPhearson, Texas Tech - 75.5
3. D'Shawn Jamison, Texas - 73.4 pic.twitter.com/kbUqR5X5dB
He was tied for the team lead with five pass breakups and he registered 51 tackles, 42 of which were of the solo variety. What’s more, he was a special teams factor as he blocked two kicks.
In the Big 12, corners like McPhearson are invaluable given how many teams boast elite passing attacks. So bringing him back for an encore in 2021 would be a huge boon to the Red Raider defense.