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Tennessee added a big-time talent to its 2025 transfer portal class on Sunday afternoon.
The Vols added a commitment from ex-Duke running back Star Thomas. He announced his decision on social media:
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Thomas has been extremely productive over the past few seasons in college football. He rushed for over 500 yards in 2022 and 2023 while playing for New Mexico State. He then cleared the 800-yard threshold in 2024 while helping to lead Duke to a 9-win season.
Now, Thomas joins a Tennessee backfield where he will have the opportunity to contribute in a big way in 2025. The Vols are looking to replace leading rusher Dylan Sampson, who rushed for 1,491 yards and 22 touchdowns in 2024. Sampson is now headed to the NFL.
Tennessee does have a pair of younger running backs set to return next fall: DeSean Bishop and Peyton Lewis. Both Bishop and Lewis averaged over 5 yards per carry for the Vols in 2024.
Josh Heupel and his staff have been very selective in the transfer portal so far this offseason. The Vols only have 3 commits to this point in the cycle from transfers, including Thomas.
Spenser is a news editor for Saturday Down South and covers college football across all Saturday Football brands.
