Virginia Tech's top backup RB Malachi Thomas, a former starter for the Hokies in parts of 2021 and 2022, is expected to enter the transfer portal per source.
During his four seasons at Virginia Tech, Thomas ran for 1,127 yards and seven touchdowns while averaging 4.4 yards per carry plus 28 catches for 198 yards and one touchdown. Thomas looked like the running back of the future after multiple 100+ yard games in 2021 before injuries limited what would have been his first full year as a starter in 2022. Thomas was then relegated to the backup role behind standout tailback Bhayshul Tuten the past two seasons, but was productive when called upon against Syracuse this season with 14 carries for 73 yards and a touchdown.
He will have one year of eligibility remaining at his next school.
Thomas was in line to potentially be Virginia Tech's starting running back in 2025 though that was not guaranteed with a healthy PJ Prioleau who flashed potential before getting hurt against Stanford and the rise of redshirt freshman Jeremiah Coney this season. While Coney and Prioleau would be an intriguing duo to lead Virginia Tech's backfield in 2025, I do believe the Hokies will look at taking at least a veteran bridge running back to lead this group before handing the reigns off to Coney, though don't be surprised to see the Richmond native take on a larger role next year.
The Hokies may also just look to take a big swing at a top talent in the portal to lead the group with Coney being able to profile as more of that power back. One name to watch is Marshall's AJ Turner who is a 757 native that averaged over 7 yards per carry and ran for over 800 yards this past season.
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