Tennessee Football Gets Duke Running Back Star Thomas Out of Transfer Portal: A Key Addition for the Vols

In a move that has captured the attention of Tennessee Volunteers football fans and analysts alike, head coach Josh Heupel has successfully secured the commitment of former Duke running back Star Thomas, who entered the NCAA transfer portal in December. This addition could significantly bolster the Vols’ backfield, which has been in search of depth and explosive playmakers after losing several key contributors in recent seasons. With the 2025 season approaching, Thomas’ arrival at Tennessee raises expectations for a team looking to continue its upward trajectory in the SEC and on the national stage.

Background: Who Is Star Thomas?

Star Thomas was a standout running back at Duke University, showcasing his talents in a variety of ways during his time with the Blue Devils. A multi-dimensional athlete, Thomas is known for his explosive speed, elusive running style, and ability to contribute as both a rusher and a receiver out of the backfield. In his freshman year at Duke, he made an immediate impact, impressing coaches and fans with his balance, vision, and versatility. He finished his first season with impressive statistics, earning a place as one of the team’s go-to offensive weapons.

Despite Duke’s struggles as a program over the past few seasons, Thomas consistently flashed his potential. He was a key player in the Blue Devils’ offensive game plan, and his ability to stretch the field and break off long runs gave the team a much-needed playmaking presence. In his time at Duke, Thomas ran for over 1,000 yards and demonstrated his ability to be a reliable weapon in both short-yardage and open-field situations. His 5-foot-11, 205-pound frame allows him to power through tackles when necessary, but it is his quickness and agility that make him a dangerous asset in space.

However, after a coaching change at Duke and a shift in the program’s strategic focus, Thomas made the decision to enter the transfer portal, seeking a new environment where he could continue to develop and potentially have a larger role on a higher-profile program. His departure from Duke was seen as a chance for him to test the waters and explore new opportunities, and it didn’t take long for Tennessee to express interest in the talented running back.

Tennessee’s Running Back Needs

The decision to bring in Star Thomas is indicative of Tennessee’s ongoing efforts to fortify its backfield, an area of concern in recent seasons. The Vols have seen several key players depart through the NFL draft or graduation, and the coaching staff has been keen on finding reliable options to complement their high-powered offense.

In the 2024 season, Tennessee struggled with consistency at the running back position. While the offense thrived through the air, led by quarterback Joe Milton and wide receivers like Squirrel White and Bru McCoy, the ground game lacked a true difference-maker. Several running backs, including Jabari Small and Dylan Sampson, showed flashes of potential, but the team often leaned on the pass to move the ball down the field. As a result, there was an obvious need for a more dynamic running back who could provide a balance and relieve some of the pressure on the passing game.

Tennessee’s high-paced offense, under Josh Heupel’s leadership, has been built on explosive plays and quick strikes. A versatile running back like Thomas fits perfectly into this system, providing a dual threat as both a runner and a pass-catcher. His ability to excel in space and break off long runs is a trait that would complement Tennessee’s up-tempo style and add a new dimension to their offensive attack.

The Vols also saw a potential gap in leadership in the backfield, especially with the departure of some senior players. Thomas’ experience in the ACC will bring a level of maturity to the Tennessee locker room, while his talents on the field could help develop a more balanced offensive identity.

Star Thomas’ Fit at Tennessee

Tennessee’s up-tempo offensive scheme requires running backs who can excel in multiple facets of the game, and Thomas’ skill set makes him a perfect fit. He brings a combination of speed and power that can be lethal on outside runs and screen plays, and his experience as a pass-catching back allows him to be a mismatch against opposing defenses. Whether running between the tackles or flaring out into the open field, Thomas has shown the ability to turn short-yardage plays into explosive gains.

Moreover, Thomas’ ability to read defenses and make quick decisions at the line of scrimmage should make him a valuable asset in Tennessee’s zone-blocking schemes, which rely on running backs to find cutback lanes and exploit defensive weaknesses. His agility allows him to make defenders miss in tight spaces, while his top-end speed can turn a routine play into a highlight-reel moment.

While many of his highlights at Duke came in a traditional pro-style offense, Thomas’ skill set translates well to the high-speed, wide-open approach of Tennessee. The Vols’ offense has been known for its ability to stretch defenses and force defenders into difficult one-on-one situations, and Thomas can exploit those mismatches with his explosiveness. The addition of Thomas also provides flexibility for Heupel, allowing him to deploy a running back that can both dominate in a traditional running back role and serve as a versatile weapon in the passing game.

With a crowded running back room at Tennessee, which includes several players who have shown flashes of potential, Thomas will face competition for carries. However, his experience and overall skill level give him a strong chance to earn a prominent role in the offense. His ability to contribute in both the rushing and passing games will likely be a key factor in how he is utilized within Heupel’s system.

A Major Get for Josh Heupel and Tennessee

From a broader perspective, the addition of Star Thomas to Tennessee’s roster is a significant coup for head coach Josh Heupel. In the competitive landscape of college football, particularly in the SEC, recruiting talent from the transfer portal has become a key component of building a championship-caliber program. Heupel’s ability to attract a player of Thomas’ caliber demonstrates the growing appeal of Tennessee football under his leadership.

Since taking over in 2021, Heupel has elevated the Vols’ program, turning Tennessee into one of the most dynamic offenses in the nation. The team has made significant strides in recruiting, especially in the areas of skill position players, and Thomas’ commitment is a testament to the program’s continued progress. With Tennessee’s offense ranked among the best in the SEC, the addition of a versatile, explosive running back gives the Vols another weapon to utilize in their pursuit of a Southeastern Conference championship.

Heupel has always placed an emphasis on speed and flexibility within his offensive schemes, and Thomas’ skill set will fit seamlessly into that framework. With the right coaching and the opportunity to thrive in Tennessee’s system, Thomas has the potential to be one of the standout running backs in the SEC during the 2025 season.

The Future for Tennessee Football

Looking ahead to the 2025 season, Tennessee football is poised to continue its rise as one of the premier programs in the country. The Vols return a strong core of players on offense, including quarterback Joe Milton, who has the potential to lead the team to new heights. Milton’s strong arm and ability to push the ball downfield should open up opportunities for running backs like Thomas to exploit defenses with big plays in the open field.

With the SEC continuing to be a juggernaut of college football, Tennessee will need all hands on deck to compete at the highest level. The addition of a talent like Star Thomas only strengthens their chances of success in both conference play and on the national stage. Thomas could be the missing piece that propels Tennessee’s offense into even greater heights, providing a well-rounded attack that combines speed, power, and playmaking ability.

Furthermore, Thomas’ arrival could have a ripple effect on recruiting. By bringing in a talented player from the transfer portal, Tennessee is signaling to future recruits that it is a program capable of attracting high-level talent and developing players into stars. This could be instrumental in continuing to build momentum for Heupel and his staff as they look to assemble a roster that can compete for championships in the years to come.