Former Commodore defensive standout Johnell Thomas enters his first year on the Vanderbilt coaching staff. He will serve as a defensive graduate assistant under coordinator David Kotulski.

Thomas, a native of Orlando, Fla., served as a senior defensive co-captain on the 2012 Vanderbilt squad that tied a school record with nine victories and captured the Franklin American Mortgage Music City Bowl over N.C. State.

Thomas started 19 games at defensive end during a four-year career from 2009-12, earning 90 total tackles, 12 tackles for loss and 4.5 quarterback sacks. Following his senior season, Thomas received the Mr. Commodore Award at the athletic program[apos]s annual banquet in recognition of Vanderbilt[apos]s top male student-athlete.

A product of Boone H.S. in Orlando, Thomas earned a Bachelor[apos]s degree in Human and Organizational Development from Vanderbilt[apos]s Peabody College in May 2013. He is enrolled in postgraduate studies.