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Thomas key in-state target for Odom

by: Dub Jellison02/02/26dubjellison

Among the top in-state targets of Purdue in the 2027 class, Warren Central (Ind.) running back Keyon Thomas is a key name to know for the Boilermakers.

Former Purdue running backs coach Lamar Conard was let go after three seasons, clearing the way for Cornell Ford to coach the backfield. While Thomas is still building a relationship with Ford, Barry Odom had a clear message for the Indianapolis native.

“Coach Odom said that he sees me being a key part of their offense,” Thomas said.

Purdue sees Thomas as a physical back that can impact the ground game between the tackles, as he has stated that the “best part of football” was to “punish the defense” to GoldandBlack.com previously.

Thomas enjoyed a breakout campaign for Warren Central in 2025, rushing for 1,337 yards and 19 touchdowns in just nine games. He also added 18 catches for 184 yards and a score through the air.

“From his words, he believes that, he just likes my physicality, and the way I run the ball, my vision. He said that he can see me in multiple spots around the field, just helping the team be better overall,” Thomas said. “Obviously running back, and if need be, special teams.”

Purdue is at the forefront of his recruitment, but Cincinnati and Michigan State are also programs to watch. He expects to be back in West Lafayette this spring, as well as eyeing trips to East Lansing and Cincinnati. Vanderbilt, Arizona State, Indiana, Kentucky, Marshall, Kent State, Miami of Ohio, Bowling Green, Toledo, and Western Michigan have also offered.

“I’m a big, big person on where family is. I want to feel home like whether that’s at Purdue or one of those other schools,” Thomas said.

Purdue has several other running back targets in addition to Thomas, including Sheridan (Ark.) Isaiah Stephens, Bolingbrook (Ill.) TJ Lewis, Miami Carol City (Fla.), Lee Prince Jr., and Arlington Martin (Tx.) tailback Javian Jones-Priest. All but Lewis were recently offered by Cornell Ford.

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