Jourdan Thomas injury: What does the season-ending injury mean for Josh Heupel’s Tennessee

Jourdan Thomas was anticipated to become a full-time starter in Tennessee's secondary for the upcoming 2024 college football season. However, a few days into the fall camp, the defensive back suffered a season-ending injury in practice on Saturday, creating some concerns.

Thomas was projected to be the starter at nickelback for the Volunteers in the upcoming season. He has never started a game for the team at the position but he’s had 25 appearances at a position over the past couple of seasons, showcasing significant experience.

Without a doubt, Jourdan Thomas’ injury comes as a significant setback for Tennessee's secondary ahead of the 2024 college football season. The team's secondary is in a rebuilding phase after losing 11 defensive backs to the NFL and the transfer portal this offseason.

With Jourdan Thomas out of the 2024 season, Tennessee will have to look at other options on its roster that can fit into the nickelback role. It's the duty of Josh Heupel and his staff to find a suitable replacement for last year's starter, Tamarion McDonald.

Thomas's injury could create an opportunity for true freshman Boo Carter to compete for a starting role in his first season with the Volunteers. Even before injury ruled Thomas out of the upcoming season, Carter was touted for early playing time at the nickelback position.

There are also a host of other options Tennessee can play in the position for the upcoming season. Redshirt sophomore Christian Harrison has also been working at the nickelback position during the first week of preseason camp and he could get some minutes in the role.

Also, redshirt junior Andre Turrentine and fifth-year senior Will Brooks, who have experience at the position, have primarily been competing for starting roles at safety this offseason. Whoever loses the battle between the two can obviously get some playing time at nickelback.

Josh Heupel raves about leadership in his secondary

Ahead of the fall camp, Tennessee's coach was happy with the leadership in the team's secondary, despite the multiple exits. He named a couple of outstanding players, including Jourdan Thomas.

“Yeah, we have good leadership inside of that room. Andre Turrentine does a dynamic job in the leadership role. Will Brooks has been around for a long time, he does a nice job. Jourdan Thomas, those are all guys that are on our leadership council as well.”

The secondary will undoubtedly play a crucial role in the Volunteers' success in the upcoming season. The team can secure a spot in the expanded college football playoff if the secondary has a solid season.