This week, Indiana is set to welcome transfer linebacker Darius Thomas for a visit, according to Matt Zenitz of 247Sports. With experience at Western Kentucky and Louisville under his belt, Thomas is exploring new opportunities as he visits several schools, including Oklahoma State and West Virginia. Known for his defensive prowess, Thomas has demonstrated impressive skills on the field, earning recognition in the Conference USA. His potential move could significantly impact Indiana's defense if he commits.

Darius Thomas initially spent three years at Western Kentucky before entering the transfer portal last December. After committing to Louisville, he participated in their spring football program but re-entered the portal recently. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 212 pounds, Thomas is currently considering offers from multiple universities. In 2024, as a redshirt sophomore, he played all 13 games for the Hilltoppers, finishing sixth in total tackles with 54. Additionally, he contributed 6.5 tackles for loss, four sacks, three quarterback hurries, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery.

Thomas’s achievements extended beyond statistics, as he earned honorable mention All-CUSA Defense (LB) and fourth-team Phil Steele Postseason CUSA All-Conference honors. At Western Kentucky, he was teammates with IU defensive lineman Hosea Wheeler. As a true freshman in 2022, Thomas appeared in eight games, recording nine tackles. However, an injury sidelined him during the entire 2023 season. Despite this setback, he retains two seasons of eligibility moving forward.

Prior to college, Thomas was a highly regarded 3-star recruit out of Miramar High School in Florida. Among other schools, he chose Western Kentucky over offers from Colorado, Florida Atlantic, FIU, Georgia, Texas A&M, and Toledo. His decision now may hinge on which university aligns best with his career aspirations and personal preferences.

If Indiana secures Thomas’s commitment, it would represent a significant boost to their defensive lineup. His combination of experience, versatility, and proven ability on the field makes him a valuable asset for any program fortunate enough to land him. Fans eagerly await developments in this recruitment saga, hopeful that Thomas will choose Indiana as his next destination.