Star Thomas Poised to Emerge as a Difference Maker for Tennessee Football in 2025
When the Tennessee Volunteers take the field for the 2025 college football season, one name fans and analysts alike will be watching closely is Star Thomas. A dynamic athlete with a versatile skill set and a chip on his shoulder, Thomas has the opportunity to become a significant contributor for the Vols as they chase SEC success and a potential College Football Playoff berth. In a program looking for new offensive firepower and leadership, his emergence could not be more timely.
Star Thomas arrived at Tennessee as a bit of a mystery to the casual observer, but his pedigree and production tell a different story. A transfer from Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, where he showcased both speed and physicality, Thomas enters Knoxville with the reputation of a workhorse who’s just scratching the surface of his potential. His high school career in Alabama was equally impressive, as he consistently displayed breakaway speed, field vision, and an ability to make defenders miss. Though overlooked by some of the bigger programs initially, Thomas used that as motivation to grind harder — and now he finds himself in a position to shine in one of college football’s most competitive conferences.
At 6 feet and around 210 pounds, Thomas brings an intriguing combination of size and speed to the Volunteers’ backfield. He’s not just a straight-line runner; he’s shifty in tight spaces and has a low center of gravity that makes him difficult to bring down. His ability to bounce runs to the outside, cut back across the grain, or lower his shoulder for tough yards between the tackles gives Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel and offensive coordinator Joey Halzle a new toy to work with — especially as the Vols look to diversify their rushing attack.
Tennessee’s offense has flourished in recent years thanks to Heupel’s uptempo scheme, one that relies heavily on timing, spacing, and the ability to keep defenses off-balance. While the passing game typically garners most of the headlines, a strong ground game remains essential for the Vols to reach their full potential. With veteran back Dylan Sampson providing experience and explosiveness, Thomas could serve as a perfect complementary piece — or perhaps even work his way into a featured role. His skill set allows him to function as both a traditional running back and a pass-catching threat, giving the Vols flexibility in how they line up and attack opposing defenses.
There’s also a mental edge to Star Thomas that sets him apart. He’s confident without being arrogant, aware of the work ahead but undeterred by it. Teammates have spoken highly of his dedication in the weight room and his grasp of the playbook, while coaches are intrigued by his football IQ and his adaptability. In spring practices, Thomas has reportedly made a strong impression, demonstrating a natural feel for the game and a willingness to do the little things — like blitz pickup, special teams reps, and downfield blocking — that often separate good players from great ones.
For Tennessee fans, the rise of a player like Thomas evokes memories of past breakout stars who arrived without much fanfare but left a lasting legacy. Players such as Alvin Kamara, who also came to Knoxville as a transfer, managed to leverage their time on Rocky Top into national recognition and NFL stardom. While every player’s journey is different, the parallels in terms of potential and opportunity are hard to ignore.
It also helps that Thomas is joining a Tennessee team that appears to be on the cusp of something special. After several seasons of building under Heupel, the Vols have put together a roster that blends veteran leadership with young, explosive talent. The offensive line returns several key pieces, and the quarterback position — while facing the challenge of replacing Nico Iamaleava — remains in good hands with a deep room of athletic passers who can keep the tempo high and defenses guessing. That infrastructure gives Thomas the platform to succeed. He won’t have to do it all himself, but if he can consistently deliver in his touches, his value will grow immensely as the season progresses.
In the modern era of college football, versatility is currency. The best programs don’t just rely on stars — they rely on depth and players who can wear multiple hats. Star Thomas fits that mold. He can take a handoff out of the shotgun and hit the edge with burst. He can motion out wide and run a route against a linebacker. He can return kicks, catch swing passes, and provide a spark when the team needs a jolt of energy. His all-around game ensures that Tennessee will be able to use him in a variety of packages, particularly against defenses that struggle with tempo or personnel matchups.
And make no mistake: the SEC will offer plenty of challenges. With defenses like Georgia, Alabama, and LSU always lurking, Tennessee needs difference-makers who can tilt the field. That’s where Thomas comes in. In a league defined by explosive plays and momentum swings, a player like Thomas — who can turn a simple draw into a 40-yard gain or a screen pass into a highlight — is invaluable. His ability to produce chunk plays will be essential if Tennessee wants to stay on schedule offensively and avoid relying too heavily on third-and-long conversions.
There’s also something to be said about timing. For Thomas, this season represents more than just a chance to play SEC football — it’s a shot to prove himself on the biggest stage. Players with something to prove often play with an urgency that’s hard to teach, and Thomas fits that description. His journey, which included JUCO stints and overlooked recruiting cycles, has prepared him for this moment. He knows what it means to fight for every rep and earn every yard. That mindset will serve him well, especially in a program like Tennessee, where nothing is guaranteed and competition is relentless.
Of course, there will be growing pains. Transitioning to the SEC from JUCO ball is no small feat, and there will be a learning curve. Defensive fronts are faster, smarter, and more aggressive. Mistakes get magnified. But Thomas seems built for the challenge. With a strong support system around him — including running backs coach Jerry Mack and strength coach Kurt Schmidt — he’s in a good environment to learn, adapt, and ultimately thrive.
Off the field, Thomas has embraced the culture of Tennessee football. He’s spoken about the pride of wearing the orange and white, and how much he respects the legacy of the program. That matters in a place like Knoxville, where tradition runs deep and fans are passionate. By investing himself fully in the program and building strong relationships with teammates, Thomas has set himself up for success not just as a player, but as a leader in the locker room.
If the Vols are going to make a legitimate run in 2025, they’ll need breakout performers — players who elevate the team beyond what’s written on paper. Star Thomas has all the tools to be that kind of player. His blend of size, speed, skill, and mindset makes him a potential X-factor, the kind of game-changer who can swing momentum, spark a comeback, or seal a win.
As Tennessee prepares for another grueling SEC slate, the spotlight will shine on household names and high-profile recruits. But don’t be surprised if, by midseason, fans and analysts alike are talking about Star Thomas as one of the key engines behind Tennessee’s success. In a program that values toughness, versatility, and explosiveness, he checks every box.
His journey has not always been linear, but that’s often the case with the most compelling players. Now, with the stage set and the lights bright, Star Thomas has a golden opportunity to write his next chapter — and if everything goes according to plan, it could be a chapter Vol Nation remembers for years to come.
