UTEP's Kam Thomas Recognized on Paul Hornung Award Preseason Watch List

Strategic Insights -

Austin: The University of Texas at El Paso's (UTEP) Kam Thomas has been recognized on the 2025 Paul Hornung Award Preseason Watch List. The Paul Hornung Award, presented by Texas Roadhouse, honors the most versatile player in major college football. Thomas, a redshirt senior, has shown exceptional skills in his first season with the Miners, leading the team in multiple categories and ranking fifth in Conference USA in all-purpose yards.

Key Takeaways:

  • Kam Thomas, a redshirt senior, was recognized on the 2025 Paul Hornung Award Preseason Watch List.
  • Thomas led UTEP in all-purpose yards (871) and all-purpose yards per game (96.8) in his first season with the Miners.
  • He ranked fifth in Conference USA in all-purpose yards and was one of two CUSA players to return a punt for a score.
  • Thomas led the team in punt returns (10), punt return yards (200), and return average (20.0), and took one back 93 yards for a touchdown at rival NM State.
  • He was named to the 2024 All-CUSA first team special teams for his outstanding performance.
  • Thomas tied for the team lead in receptions (47), gaining 532 yards and scoring two touchdowns.
  • He added 27 yards rushing and 112 yards on seven kickoff returns, displaying his versatility on the field.

Statistics:

  • 871: All-purpose yards led by Kam Thomas in his first season with the UTEP Miners.
  • 96.8: All-purpose yards per game average led by Kam Thomas in his first season with the UTEP Miners.
  • 5th: Ranking in Conference USA in all-purpose yards by Kam Thomas.
  • 10: Punt returns led by Kam Thomas within the season.
  • 200: Punt return yards led by Kam Thomas within the season.
  • 20.0: Return average led by Kam Thomas within the season.
  • 93: Yards returned for a touchdown by Kam Thomas at rival NM State.

Sources:

  • [Source: The State of Texas news release]
  • [Source: University of Texas at El Paso athletic department]