Jacksonville State transfer defensive lineman Chris Hardie to visit Ole Miss

Former Jacksonville State star defensive lineman Chris Hardie will visit Ole Miss this weekend as he seeks a new home out of the NCAA transfer portal, his agency told On3’s Pete Nakos.

Hardie was a 2023 first-team All-CUSA selection on the defensive line, becoming one of the top defenders in the league. He’s a multi-year starter.

The fifth-year player has racked up 48 career appearances and been an active presence along the defensive line for the Gamecocks for the past four seasons. His statistics are eye-popping.

Hardie has logged 162 tackles, 46.5 tackles for a loss, 21.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, a fumble recovery, two passes defended and an interception.

Prior to enrolling at Jackonsville State, Chris Hardie was ranked as a three-star prospect by On3 with an 88 grade. He did not have an On3 Industry Ranking, as not enough major scouting services provided a grade or evaluation on him.

Ole Miss a finalist for a running back transfer

New Mexico State transfer running back Star Thomas has cut his list to four schools, On3’s Pete Nakos reported Wednesday. Ole Miss, Cal, Duke and Toledo are the finalists for the former second team All-CUSA performer.

Thomas rushed for a total of 1,173 yards and nine touchdowns over the past two seasons with the Aggies. That included 653 yards and four scores this past season while averaging 5.8 yards per carry.

Prior to New Mexico State, the 6-foot, 225-pound running back played one season at Coffeyville Community College (KS) in 2021, helping the team to the KJCCC Conference Championship.

Thomas also displayed an ability to make an impact as a receiver in his two seasons with the Aggies, recording 34 catches for 351 yards and five touchdowns. He finished his career at New Mexico State with 1,522 yards from scrimmage and worked as a kick returner in 2023.

On3’s Chandler Vessels also contributed to this report.