Northwestern Wildcats offensive lineman Josh Thompson has emerged as a hot commodity as the transfer portal opens up. The talented player from Fenton, Michigan, has exceeded expectations during his time in Evanston, and it seems that several Power 5 conference schools are already lining up to make their pitch.
The junior’s performance has not gone unnoticed; he was ranked as the eighth-best guard across the Big Ten and SEC combined. His skill set could significantly bolster any offensive line in need of improvement. According to reports, prominent programs such as Michigan, LSU, Florida State, Ohio State, Michigan State, Tennessee, South Carolina, Missouri, and Auburn have already shown interest in the Fenton High School standout.
Top contenders for Josh Thompson’s transfer
As the dust settles on the current season, let’s take a closer look at the top three schools that make the most sense for Josh Thompson to consider for his next chapter.
#3. Tennessee Volunteers
The Tennessee Volunteers are facing a major overhaul along their offensive line, with four senior starters expected to depart in 2024. This situation creates a unique opportunity for Thompson to step in and make an immediate impact. Currently, Shamurad Umarov is the only returning guard, indicating a lack of depth in the interior.
The Volunteers struggled with pass protection this past season, allowing 26 sacks, which translates to an average of 2.17 sacks per game, ranking them 72nd in the nation. However, their rushing offense was impressive, averaging 232 yards per game. With the addition of Thompson, Tennessee could enhance its offensive line and solidify its blocking scheme. Although they secured top offensive line prospect David Sanders Jr., he is expected to play tackle, while Nic Moore, a 247 Sports 4-star prospect, will join the interior. Thompson’s experience could be a game-changer in this transition.
#2. Michigan Wolverines
Could Michigan be the frontrunner for Josh Thompson? The Michigan native might be eager to return home after three years in Evanston. The Wolverines are in a position where they need to replace key players on the left side of their offensive line, specifically guard Josh Priebe and tackle Myles Hinton, who are set to leave.
Thompson’s potential move to Ann Arbor mirrors that of Priebe, who transferred as a graduate. While Michigan has some depth along the line, their offensive performance in 2024 left much to be desired. They struggled to establish the run, a hallmark of the program, managing only 160.7 yards per game, ranking 69th nationally. Thompson could provide the stability that the Wolverines desperately need to revitalize their running game.
#1. Ohio State Buckeyes
The Ohio State Buckeyes are also in the mix for Thompson’s services. After a season filled with offensive line reshuffling, it’s clear that the Buckeyes need to make significant improvements. Their performance against Michigan, where they averaged just 3 yards per rush, highlighted the urgent need for changes along the line.
This season, All-American guard Donovan Jackson was shifted to tackle, leaving the Buckeyes with a starting lineup that includes two sophomores—center Carson Hinzman and guard Tegra Tshabola—and a freshman, Austin Siereveld, in the interior. Tshabola, in particular, has struggled, while Hinzman might be better suited for a guard position. For a team that consistently aims for national championships, having uncertainty along the offensive line is a concerning situation.
Despite boasting a talented roster, Ohio State currently ranks 36th in total offense. Reports indicate that the Buckeyes have already reached out to Thompson, and his addition could be just what head coach Chip Kelly needs to fortify the line of scrimmage for the 2025 season.
Why Josh Thompson’s decision matters
The decision that Josh Thompson makes regarding his transfer will undoubtedly have a ripple effect, not only for him but also for the programs vying for his talents. With multiple schools showing interest, the stakes are high. Each of these programs has its own unique needs and challenges, and Thompson’s skills could be the key to unlocking their potential.
As we move forward, it will be fascinating to see how this situation unfolds. Will Thompson choose to return home to Michigan, step into a rebuilding role at Tennessee, or join the perennial powerhouse at Ohio State? The possibilities are endless, and college football fans are sure to be watching closely as this story develops.
In the world of college football, the transfer portal has become a game-changer. Players like Josh Thompson have the power to reshape their futures and impact the programs they choose to join. As the excitement builds, one thing is clear: Thompson’s next move will be pivotal, not just for his career but also for the teams looking to enhance their offensive lines. The anticipation is palpable as we await his decision!
