Tennessee senior Dont’e Thornton thanks fans, announces future plans
Tennessee senior wide receiver Dont’e Thornton took to social media Monday afternoon to thank the fan bases of both Tennessee and Oregon and to announce his plans to declare for the NFL Draft.
The speedster, who is out of collegiate eligibility, played his first two seasons with the Ducks before finishing his career with the Vols the past two years.
“First and foremost, I want to thank God for guiding me through every step of mt journey,” Thornton posted. “Reflecting on my time at the University of Tennessee and the University of Oregon, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the incredible experiences and lessons I’ve gained. Representing these programs has been an honor beyond words.”
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— BigMacc🥷🏿 (@IamDTJ11) December 23, 2024
The 6-foot-5, 210-pound wideout led the Vols with six receiving touchdowns, 661 yards and 25.4 yards per catch in 2024 to go along with 26 receptions.
“To my teammates, coaches and everyone who supported me, thank you for pushing me to grow as both a player and a person,” Thornton said. “The bonds we built and the memories we created will stay with me forever.
“To the fans, you are the heartbeat of these programs. From Vol Walk to dancing to Shout at Autzen Stadium, your energy made every moment unforgettable. I will forever cherish the pride and passion you brought to every game.”
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Despite the impressive numbers, Thornton was limited to 347 offensive snaps this season due to lingering injuries that forced him to miss extensive parts of several games. The receiver ranked fourth on the team with the 26 receptions.
“After thoughtful prayer and discussions with my family and team, I am officially declaring for the 2025 NFL Draft,” the senior concluded. “This marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another, and I am excited for the challenges and opportunities ahead. To Tennessee and Oregon, thank you for helping shape me into the man I am today. I’ll forever hold these programs close to my heart.”
Thornton surpassed the century mark in a single game three times on the season (UTC – 105 yards, Miss St. – 104 yards, Vanderbilt – 118 yards) and found the endzone twice against the Mocs and the Commodores to bookend the regular season. The veteran also found the endzone in games against Oklahoma and Mississippi State.
In 2023, the newcomer finished with 13 receptions for 224 yards and one touchdown in his first season in Knoxville. Prior to his Volunteer career, Thornton racked up 541 yards and three touchdowns on 26 receptions over a two-year span with Oregon.
