Former Tennessee Vol already becoming a fan favorite with his new NFL team with a simple and personal gesture

The Raiders drafted Thornton, Jr. in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft with the 111th overall pick, and it might have ended up being one of the most promising landing spots for the former Vol.  The Raiders have Pro Bowl rookie tight end Brock Bowers as a focal pointing of their passing attack, which will now be led by free agent signee and former Seattle Pro Bowl QB Geno Smith. 

However, the Raiders don't have much proven talent at the wide receiver position beyond Jakobi Meyers, so the door of opportunity is pushed wide open for Thornton, Jr. right off the bat. 

Thornton, Jr., who led all of FBS in yards per catch in 2024 (25.4 ypc), had hot and cold moments with the Vols from a game-to-game basis.  However, he managed to deliver some of the biggest splash plays for the Vols during his two years in Knoxville.  In 2024, he posted a catch of 36+ yards in 7 of Tennessee's 12 regular season games.  He saved his best for last, helping the Vols overcome an early big hole against Vanderbilt in a must-win game to make the College Football Playoff for the first time ever, notching 3 catches for 118 yards and 2 touchdowns, including an 86-yard score.

If he can translate that impact, big play production to the NFL level, slapping hands with fans won't be the only thing to get them to buy and don his jersey on Sundays in Sin City.