BOOM! Pete Golding lands one of most impactful portal defensive players; Former Baylor LB Keaton Thomas commits to Ole Miss
by Evelyn Van Pelt | Jan 3, 2026 | Football |
OXFORD, Miss. — Ole Miss has landed one of the most impactful defensive players to enter the transfer portal this cycle, securing a commitment that sends a clear message about where the program is headed under head coach Pete Golding. Former Baylor Bears linebacker Keaton Thomas is heading to Oxford after announcing his departure from Waco last month. It is a massive portal win for Ole Miss.
After two productive seasons with the Bears, the 6-foot-2, 229-pound linebacker chose to explore new opportunities, joining fellow linebackers Phoenix Jackson and Jeremy Evans in leaving the program. There was optimism inside Baylor that Thomas might stay following the hiring of new defensive coordinator Joe Klanderman, who publicly stated Thomas was the first player he contacted upon arriving in Waco. Despite those efforts, Thomas ultimately elected to move on.
One of the most productive linebackers in the country
Thomas’ departure was not a reflection of his play — far from it. While Baylor’s defense struggled as a unit, Thomas consistently stood out as one of the top linebackers in college football.
In 2024, he delivered one of the best individual defensive seasons in Baylor history, piling up 114 tackles, seven tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, three quarterback pressures, and an interception returned 35 yards for a touchdown. He recorded double-digit tackles in four games and became the engine of the Bears’ defense.
He followed that performance with another strong campaign in 2025, leading the team again with 105 tackles across 12 games, while adding seven tackles for loss and a sack. His consistency, instincts, and ability to play sideline-to-sideline made him indispensable.
Thomas’ résumé speaks for itself. His accolades include:
- Bronko Nagurski Trophy Watch List
- Butkus Award Watch List
- Preseason All-America honors (Athlon, Phil Steele)
- Preseason All-Big 12 selections
- Preseason First-Team All-Texas honors
A perfect fit for Golding’s defense
Thomas brings proven production, leadership, and Power Five experience to a unit that values physicality, discipline, and intelligence at linebacker — all hallmarks of Golding’s defensive philosophy.
His journey to this point also underscores his toughness. Thomas began his college career at Northeast Mississippi Community College after initially committing to West Virginia, then worked his way into becoming one of the most respected defenders in the Big 12. That path aligns seamlessly with the gritty, battle-tested profile Ole Miss has prioritized in recent recruiting cycles.
What it means going forward
For the Rebels, adding Keaton Thomas is a statement. He is a true defensive leader and his commitment reinforces the program’s ability to compete nationally, both now and in the seasons ahead.
Simply put: this is a huge get.
Like this:
Like Loading...
Related
Evelyn Van Pelt
Evelyn has covered sports for over two decades, beginning her journalism career as a sports writer for a newspaper in Austin, Texas. She attended Texas A&M and majored in English. Evelyn's love for Ole Miss began when her daughter Katie attended the university on a volleyball scholarship. Evelyn created the Rebel Walk in 2013 and has served as publisher and managing editor since its inception. Email Evie at: Evie@TheRebelWalk.com
