LSU is losing another former prized recruit to the transfer portal. Hours after backup quarterback Walker Howard announced his transfer to Ole Miss, fellow five-star talent Kardell Thomas declared his intention to enter the portal over social media. Thomas, a junior offensive lineman, will have two years of eligibility remaining at his next school.

“Growing up, being from Louisiana playing at LSU has been a lifetime goal of mind,” Thomas posted on Instagram. “And for that I want to thank LSU for giving me the opportunity to achieve such a goal. In life growth is painful. Change is painful. But nothing is as painful as feeling stuck somewhere you don’t belong. I am not what happened to me. I am what I choose to become.

“Unfortunately my time here at LSU did not pan out the way I expected but regardless I am forever grateful for the opportunity given. I believe in order for me to grow and be the best version of myself, I have to make a decision that will allow for that to occur.”

Thomas, a Baton Rouge native, signed with the Tigers as the No. 1 offensive guard and No. 26 overall player in the 2019 class. The 6-foot-3, 350-pound lineman appeared in four games last season and made two starts over his four years at LSU.