As HBCU football teams continue to shape their rosters, a defending conference champion has added a key contributor from the SWAC.

Kendric Rhymes, the second-leading rusher for SWAC West champion Southern in 2024, announced his commitment to Big South-OVC co-champ Tennessee State Friday afternoon.

LAST RIDE ⏳ pic.twitter.com/q16GmotGoD

— Kendric Rhymes (@keno_datman) May 9, 2025

Rhymes ran for 662 yards on 129 carries and scored seven rushing touchdowns in helping Southern win their second SWAC West title in three seasons. The yards were the second most for the Jaguars, while the touchdowns led all SU running backs.

Tennessee State will be led this coming season by veteran HBCU/UFL coach and former NFL wide receiver Reggie Barlow, who accepted the job following Eddie George’s departure for FBS school Bowling Green.