The Tennessee Volunteers’ defense received a major boost on Thursday.

After many assumed he would be leaving, Omari “Big O” Thomas announced that he would indeed return to Rocky Top for the 2024 season.

The big defensive lineman took to social media to personally announce his return.

In 2023, Thomas set a new career-high in tackles with 31. Thomas also added 4.5 tackles for loss and 1 sack. The return of Thomas should help solidify a strong Tennessee defensive front.

Thomas has played in 4 seasons for the Vols. During that time, the lineman has racked up 86 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, 4 sacks, and 5 forced fumbles.