Kevis Thomas, a 3-star cornerback recruit out of South Georgia, has announced his commitment to play in the SEC.

Thomas committed to Vanderbilt, and is the Commodores’ first commit in the secondary in the class of 2023. He is rated the No. 72 cornerback in the class, and the No. 59 player in the state of Georgia by 247Sports. Thomas primarily projects as a cornerback and attends Lowndes High School in Valdosta, Georgia, the same school that produced 2021 signee Jacques Hunter.

Also on Sunday, Vanderbilt landed a commitment from Duran Parish of Biloxi, Mississippi. Parish, who is listed at 6-foot-2 and 160 pounds, is not yet rated by 247Sports, but chose Vanderbilt over 3 other offers, including Mississippi State. He also holds basketball offers from Mississippi State, Cincinnati, Wichita State and Southern Mississippi.

That gives Vanderbilt 6 commits in the class of 2023.

Thomas chose Vanderbilt over some 23 offers, including Arkansas, Duke, Indiana, Iowa State, Louisville, Maryland, Michigan State and West Virginia. Vanderbilt defensive coordinator Nick Howell served as his primary recruiter.

As Vandy247 noted, Vanderbilt loaded up on defensive backs in its 2022 class, looking to add speed and athleticism on the back end of its defense. Generally, the Commodores recruit cornerbacks and safeties as general DB’s who can grow into either specific corners or safeties over time as they develop. Thomas plays cornerback for Lowndes and also features as a kick returner.

Here are Thomas’ highlights from Hudl: