Former UGA DB reportedly plans to file lawsuit, enter transfer portal

Former Georgia defensive back JaCorey Thomas is trying to get one last crack at playing college football.

And it appears he’s willing to go to court to do so.

According to a report from Pete Nakos of On3, Thomas plans to file a lawsuit in order to gain eligibility and enter the transfer portal. Doing so would allow him the ability to play elsewhere should he be granted a temporary restraining order.

Thomas spent his first four years in Athens, emerging as a starting safety for the Bulldogs last season. Thomas had 45 tackles for Georgia last season and a sack, which occurred in the SEC championship game.

Sixteen athletes last week were granted a temporary restraining order to return to college for one more season and enter the transfer portal in Louisiana. One of those 16, former Ole Miss tight end Dae’Quan Wright, plans to sign with LSU after suiting up for the Cleveland Browns during the NFL preseason.

According to a report from Rusty Mansell of UGAsports.com, Georgia had added wide receiver Cole Speer back to the 2026 roster. However, Georgia coach Kirby Smart did not confirm that Speer had officially rejoined the team.

“Well, there’s a lot of assumptions in what you just said,” Smart said. “So I wouldn’t make any assumptions right now with the NCAA and the rulings and the things going on. So he is not officially back with the team. We’ve had conversations with he and a lot of guys, but nothing’s official yet.”

The original temporary restraining order granted by Colorado Judge Charlotte Sweeney that gave all 2022 prospects an extra year was granted a stay, meaning those players are not eligible to play this season. Players can still file individual lawsuits, as Thomas plans to, in hopes of getting separate temporary restraining orders against the NCAA.

As for Georgia’s 2026 safety room, the Bulldogs feel good about what they have back there.