Built for the ACC: What to Expect from Louisville’s New RB

Photo: lekhy thompkins

TJ Warner

May 23, 2025 @ 04:05 PM

USJ's own Lekhy Thompkins is heading to the big stage — and he's bringing power, passion, and purpose with him. The standout running back made it official: he's committed to Louisville to continue his football journey at the next level. And if you ask him why? The answer's simple: they showed love from Day 1.   Louisville is getting a great young man on and off the field. His unique ability and skill set at 6'3" and 230 lbs is something very enticing to college coaches.   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">What type of RB should Cardinal fans expect?</h2>   A little insight on what Cardinal fans can expect from Lekhy. Louisville is getting a physical, downhill runner in Lekhy Thompkins — a true power back with a high-contact balance and finish-through-traffic mentality. He consistently runs through arm tackles and thrives between the tackles, showing the ability to wear down defenses over four quarters.   Thompkins is also a reliable pass catcher with soft hands and enough lateral quickness to make defenders miss in space. While he doesn't rely on breakaway speed, his physical play style and durability make him a back who can handle a heavy workload and deliver in short-yardage and red-zone situations.   Simply put — he's a volume back built for tough yards and big moments.   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Key Relationships</h2>   Louisville RB Coach Chris Barclay wasn't just another face in the recruiting process — he was the first and the last. “Coach Barclay really believed in me,” Lekhy said. “He saw me before anyone else, and stuck with me. That meant everything.”   Thompkins is here to compete, and to win. “They're getting a strong leader. I want to help bring national championships to Louisville,” he said with confidence. “I give 100% every time I step on the field. I'm not waiting around — I want to win right away.”   He's already connecting with other future Cardinals too. Lekhy mentioned he's taken visits with fellow RB prospect Evan Hampton, and the bond is growing. “They want two RBs, and I see myself fitting right into that. I can be that downhill, powerful runner who finishes drives.” He also mentioned he cannot wait to develop a relationship with QB commit Briggs Cherry from Chattanooga, TN.   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Looking Forward</h2>   He's been to Louisville twice so far — once for a game day and once during the spring — with an official visit scheduled for June. “Everything just felt right,” he said. “The program, the facilities, even my mom loved it. Being four hours from home is perfect, and they really made us feel special.”   And in case you're wondering what his dream NIL deals would be? “Nike, Gatorade, Lululemon, if I had to pick one for sure Nike," Lekhy said. “And if I had an NCAA rating? I'd say 79 — strong stiff arm, kind of like Derrick Henry. He's my favorite.”   To younger players chasing their own dreams, Lekhy's advice is simple: “Keep going. Even when it's hard — never give up. And enjoy the process. Get to know the coaches. Have fun with it.”   Louisville just landed a future force in the backfield — and Cardinal Nation, you've got something special on the way.   <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://prepredzone.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/05/lthompkins2.jpg?w=683" alt="" class="wp-image-1668781" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: Daryl Bogan Twitter</figcaption></figure>

USJ's own Lekhy Thompkins is heading to the big stage — and he's bringing power, passion, and purpose with him. The standout running back made it official: he's committed to Louisville to continue his football journey at the next level. And if you ask him why? The answer's simple: they showed love from Day 1.