Dont'e Thornton Jr. started his collegiate career with the Ducks in 2021 and after two years with Oregon, the wide receiver transferred to Tennessee to play his final two seasons with the Volunteers. On Monday, Dec. 25, Thornton declared for the 2025 NFL Draft.
Thornton earned 661 receiving yards in his final season with the Vols and found the end zone six times throughout the year – including a 14-yard reception against the Ohio State Buckeyes in the first round of the College Football Playoffs.
MaccOut ✌🏽✌🏽🦆🍊 pic.twitter.com/VXQhq0zWJD
— BigMacc🥷🏿 (@IamDTJ11) December 23, 2024
While playing for the Ducks in 2021 and 2022, Thornton had 26 catches for 541 receiving yards and 3 touchdowns, as well as 2 carries for 6 rushing yards. Throughout his collegiate career, which spanned four seasons, Thornton earned 1,426 total receiving yards for 10 total touchdowns.
Thornton's collegiate career ended when the Volunteers lost to the Ohio State Buckeyes 42-17 in the first round of the CFPs.
Throughout his social media post where he announced he would declare for the Draft, Thornton credited both the Ducks and the Volunteers for his success in college over the last four seasons.
"From Vol Walk to dancing to shout at Autzen Stadium, your energy made every moment unforgettable," Thornton said. "To Tennessee and Oregon, thank you for helping shape me into the man I am today. I'll forever hold those programs close to my heart."
The 2025 NFL Draft is scheduled for Thursday, April 24, 2025, through Saturday, April 26, 2025. The Draft will be hosted at Lambeau Field, home to the Green Bay Packers.