HCA: Skyler Thomas removes name from transfer portal, will return to Pullman

Skyler Thomas, a redshirt senior, has removed his name from the transfer portal a week after announcing that he would be looking elsewhere to play his final season of college football. As a starter for the Cougars defense the past two years, Thomas announced on Twitter on Monday that “returning to Pullman is the best option for my family and I.” This announcement comes two days after teammate Tay Martin announced his commitment to Oklahoma State.

The 5’9”, 185-pound senior has started in 25 of the last 26 games for the Cougars and has tallied 148 tackles and 6 interceptions in the last two years. He added two fumble recoveries last season. His 72 total tackles last season was second on the team behind Jahad Woods who had 141 from the linebacker position. He led the team in interceptions last season with four.

In his tweet, he thanks new head coach Nick Rolovich for giving him the opportunity to explore other options. He also goes on to say “The WSU staff were extremely supportive of my decision to try and play this fall and did everything they could to help.” It was originally unknown, but assumed why he entered his name into the transfer portal.

Thomas has played a few different positions for the Cougars the past few years as he started out in 2018 at free safety before moving to nickel to start last season. After the departure of Tracy Cleays, Thomas was moved to strong safety for the final eight games of the season.

The return of Thomas is a big boost to a Cougars secondary that will be looking to replace Marcus Strong who left after graduation and will need to replace Bryce Beekman who tragically passed away this past spring.

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