Kanijal Thomas

2024: Played in two games as he battled back from a preseason injury and retained his redshirt… Saw time on punt coverage against Arizona State and as a member of the punt return unit in the Rate Bowl against Rutgers, the latter of which he was in for two defensive snaps. 2023: A true freshman who saw time in seven games as a member of the Wildcats’ punt return and kickoff coverage teams, while he played as a reserve defensive back against Troy... Totaled two tackles on the year, one against SEMO and one against Troy… Was in for five defensive snaps and 41 special teams plays during the season. HIGH SCHOOL: Played at Del City under head coach Robert Jones... Regarded as the 43rd-best cornerback in the Class of 2023 by On3, which also rated him fifth among all prospects in the state of Oklahoma... Picked up honorable mention all-state honors as a junior from the Tulsa World... Recorded 177 tackles, four tackles for loss, three interceptions and 14 passes defended over his four-year prep career... Played receiver in addition to defensive back, hauling in 41 receptions for 1,075 yards and 16 touchdowns, with 821 yards and 14 scores coming during his senior campaign... Also competed in basketball – helping the Eagles win a state championship – and track and field – winning state in the 400-meter relay. PERSONAL: Kanijal (pronounced kuh-NYE-gel) Thomas was born August 14, 2004, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma... Son of Thomas Morgan and Montoya Hall... Has five siblings, Darreyl, Carlton, Phromas, Kamaira and Karazma... Majoring in psychology.