Tennessee didn’t exactly cure all that ails its battered roster in the transfer portal, having lost 15 players. However, the Vols’ newest commitment, running back Star Thomas, certainly addresses a very pressing need.
Thomas, who will transfer from Duke to Tennessee, visited the Vols this weekend before deciding to make the move from blue to orange. The 6-foot, 210-pound Thomas, who also attended Coffeyville (Kansas) Community College and is originally from Louisiana, is rated as a three-star prospect.
While that’s nothing for the Vols to hold a parade over, the former Homer (La.) High School star is certainly a big help after Tennessee lost its leading rusher and SEC Offensive Player of the Year, Dylan Sampson, who is off to the NFL.
Rising sophomore Peyton Lewis is expected to be the Vols’ No. 1 tailback this season and backed up by fellow rising sophomore DeSean Bishop. However, Lewis has dealt with at least two injuries since arriving at Tennessee, while Bishop is a bit undersized at 5-foot-10 and 200 pounds per his Tennessee profile, which is probably generous.
Thomas was the leading rusher for the Blue Devils last season, as he rang up 871 yards and seven touchdowns on 213 carries. He also caught 20 passes for 153 yards and a touchdown.
The Vols continue to manage the transfer portal as best they can but have had a surprising number of players head elsewhere despite their best efforts.
UT only has two other transfers in its 2025 class: wide receiver Amari Jefferson from Alabama and offensive lineman Wendell Moe, Jr. from Arizona. Tennessee has been known to close strong in recent years in the portal. However, this recruiting cycle has been a bit different and seemingly less successful.
Classes start on Jan. 21. If the Vols want to boost their recruiting standing and their incoming transfer talent, they had better do so soon.
