As things stand, NC State football boasts two early prizes on the 2026 recruiting trail, including one of the in-state variety in Reagan High School (N.C.) three-star quarterback Reagan Smith. The other Wolfpack pledge in the cycle is Trinity Episcopal School (Va.) three-star offensive tackle Brady Sakowitz.

Thomas ran for 871 yards and seven touchdowns this season with the Blue Devils. He played two seasons at New Mexico State before transferring to Duke.

Star Thomas is a veteran running back and an all-purpose producer with more than 2,500 yards from scrimmage and 22 TDs in his career.

Following just one season as a member of the Duke football program, Star Thomas officially entered the transfer portal in late December, citing "personal reasons" swaying a difficult decision to bolt. A few weeks later, the 6-foot, 210-pound running back from Louisiana is now heading to the SEC.

After producing 1,000-yard rushers each of the past two seasons, the Tennessee Volunteers hope they've found their next "Star" at running back.