Jakobe Thomas, a safety from Tennessee, is moving to Miami | Reports
In a significant development for both the Tennessee Volunteers and the Miami Hurricanes, safety Jakobe Thomas has announced his decision to transfer from Tennessee to Miami. This move comes after Thomas entered the NCAA Transfer Portal, exploring opportunities to further his collegiate football career.
Jakobe Thomas began his collegiate football journey at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU), where he played for three seasons. During his time at MTSU, Thomas showcased his skills and earned recognition for his defensive prowess. In 2022, he appeared in 12 games, starting three, and recorded 37 tackles, one tackle for loss, one forced fumble, three pass breakups, and four interceptions.(SI)
Seeking new challenges, Thomas transferred to the University of Tennessee for the 2024 season. In his lone season with the Volunteers, he played in all 13 games, totaling 22 tackles, three tackles for loss, one sack, one fumble recovery, and two pass deflections. His performance contributed to the team’s defensive efforts throughout the season.(SI)
After evaluating his options, Thomas decided to enter the transfer portal once again. He visited both Florida State and Miami before ultimately committing to the Hurricanes. This decision reunites him with former MTSU head coach Rick Stockstill, who is now serving as the offensive director of scouting for Florida State.(Rocky Top Talk, SI)
At 6’2″ and 200 pounds, Thomas brings valuable experience and depth to the Miami secondary. His versatility and ability to contribute in various defensive roles are expected to bolster the Hurricanes’ defensive lineup.
Thomas’s departure leaves a gap in Tennessee’s secondary. With Will Brooks graduating, Thomas was anticipated to step into a starting role alongside Andre Turrentine. Now, the Volunteers will need to identify replacements to maintain the strength of their defensive backfield. Potential candidates include Edrees Farooq, a sophomore with promising potential, and Jourdan Thomas, who could transition from his nickelback position to safety.(Rocky Top Insider, SI)
Jakobe Thomas’s transfer to Miami represents a new chapter in his collegiate football career. His experience and skills are expected to make an immediate impact on the Hurricanes’ defense. As he prepares for the upcoming season, both Thomas and his new team look forward to the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.
