Tennessee running backs
DeSean Bishop and
Star Thomas were recognized Tuesday as preseason watch list members for the Doak Walker Award.
The Vols are one of four SEC programs with multiple players recognized.
The SMU Athletic Forum annually presents the award to the nation's most outstanding college running back. The award is named for SMU's three-time All-America running back Doak Walker.
DeSean Bishop • Redshirt Sophomore • Knoxville, Tennessee
A local player who walked on at Tennessee before earning a scholarship in the spring of 2025, Bishop is poised for a breakout season. The Karns High School product played in nine games last season and finished third in the SEC in average yards per carry at 6.15. He totaled 455 yards on 74 carries with three touchdowns in 2024.
Star Thomas • Senior • Homer, Louisiana
An experienced and versatile graduate transfer, Thomas arrives on Rocky Top after spending the 2024 season at Duke. The tailback also spent two seasons at New Mexico State after transferring from Coffeyville Community College.
In 40 career FBS games (Duke and NMSU), he has logged 2,044 yards on 433 carries with 16 rushing touchdowns. Thomas has 54 career receptions for 504 yards and six scores in FBS contests.
The PwC SMU Athletic Forum Board of Directors will name ten semifinalists in November, and three finalists, as voted on by the Doak Walker Award National Selection Committee, will also be announced in November. The committee will cast a second vote in December to determine the recipient.
The recipient of the 2025 Doak Walker Award will be announced live on The Home Depot College Football Awards on December 12, 2024.