Washburn transfer edge rusher Terell Thomas is no longer a member of JMU football’s roster, a team spokesperson told JMU Sports News. 

No official reason was given for Thomas’ departure.

Thomas came to JMU this winter after playing at Emory & Henry and Washburn, but he won’t suit up for the Dukes in 2026. The 6’5 and 240-pound edge was added in the portal as a possible pass-rushing specialist, given his size and speed.

The Dukes still have plenty of options at the edge position, even with Thomas not on the team. JMU returns Amar Thomas, and the Dukes added Lamar transfer Kei’Trone Simpson as a potential starter alongside Amar Thomas. Simpson is a bigger defender — JMU lists him at 270 lbs — with reliable run-stopping skills. Amar Thomas has a varied skill set and can drop into coverage. 

Transfer additions Danny Royster (Ball State/U-Indy) and Mason Purham (Emory & Henry) are both expected to add pass-rushing juice at the position, too. They have similar skill sets to Terell Thomas and likely would’ve been ahead of him on the depth chart. Turner Schmidt, who joined JMU last season from Robert Morris, still has three seasons of eligibility left and is a promising defensive end as well. 

JMU football opens its season on Sept. 5 against Liberty.

Photo courtesy of JMU Athletics Communications