New Mexico State transfer RB Star Thomas narrows list to four schools

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-Conference-USA 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.

Thomas attended Homer High School in Homer, Louisiana prior to beginning his college career. He currently ranks among the top 50 running backs according to On3’s Transfer Portal Player Rankings.

New Mexico State finished the 2023 season with an impressive 10-5 record, including a 31-10 victory at Auburn. Thomas rushed for 67 yards on only seven carries in that win while also scoring a touchdown on a 17-yard catch.

Now it appears Thomas could have the opportunity to play a few more games in the SEC if he opts to go with Ole Miss. The Rebels look to be a Playoff contender heading into this season after finishing 11-2 in 2023. They also lost leading rusher Quinshon Judkins to the transfer portal.

Similarly, Duke also lost it’s leading rusher in Jordan Waters so opportunity would be ample for Thomas at either school. He would still have competition as Ole Miss returns Ulysses Bentley and the Blue Devils bring back Jaquez Moore.

Toledo would perhaps be the destination where Thomas could see the most opportunity, though it is the only Group of 5 program on his list. California returns its leading rusher, so he’ll have to weight that out as he makes his decision.

Either way, it’s clear whichever teams lands him will be getting a solid piece for their season.

To keep up with the latest players on the move, check out On3’s Transfer Portal wire. 

The On3 Transfer Portal Instagram account and Twitter account are excellent resources to stay up to date with the latest moves.