Tyler Thomas, a former defensive end for the South Alabama Jaguars, has announced his commitment to join the University of Kentucky through the NCAA transfer portal. The Mobile native, who previously played for the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), has two seasons of eligibility remaining as a redshirt sophomore.
During his time at South Alabama, Thomas made a significant impact on the field, accumulating a total of 37 tackles, 4.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles over two seasons. He redshirted during the 2023 season at UAB before transferring to South Alabama. His decision to move to Kentucky marks him as the second player from South Alabama to join the Wildcats this offseason, following defensive tackle Dominic Wiseman.
The Thomas twins, Tyler and his brother Trent, have both made headlines recently, as Trent Thomas, a former tight end for the Jaguars, has also committed to an SEC school. The twins were part of a larger group of players from South Alabama, with over two dozen athletes entering the transfer portal following the conclusion of the 2025 season. Among these, four players have secured commitments to SEC programs, including Wiseman and defensive lineman Achilles Woods.
As the transfer portal deadline passed on Friday, players had until then to declare their intention to move. It is important to note that those already in the portal can continue to explore their options and finalize their new destinations at any time. Other notable players from South Alabama who have announced their commitments include wide receiver Jeremy Scott, tight end Brec Long, offensive linemen Asher Hale and Malachi Preciado, as well as defensive linemen Ed Smith, Nate Jennings, and RJ Moss. Linebackers Blayne Myrick and Dalton Hughes, cornerback Nehemiah Chandler, and safeties Ty Goodwill and Wesley Miller have also made their plans public.
The transfer portal has become an essential pathway for college football players seeking new opportunities, and Thomas’s move to Kentucky adds depth to the Wildcats’ roster. With the SEC being one of the most competitive conferences in college football, his experience and skills could prove invaluable as he transitions to this new chapter in his athletic career.
Creg Stephenson, a sports writer for AL.com, covers in-state college sports and has been following the developments within South Alabama athletics closely. His insights often highlight the shifting landscape of college football as players navigate transfers and commitments across various programs.
