Miami dismisses leading receiver Jeff Thomas

Miami announced the dismissal of sophomore wideout Jeff Thomas on Wednesday, who led the team in receiving through 11 games this season.

"We have high standards for excellence, for conduct, and for the commitment to team for all of the young men who wear our uniform, and we will not waiver from those standards," head coach Mark Richt said in a statement. "We wish Jeff the very best as he moves forward in his journey."

Reports surfaced Wednesday morning that Thomas had clashed with Hurricanes coaches and was preparing to transfer. He missed practice later in the day, with the team saying his absence was due to personal reasons.

Thomas was the top-ranked recruit from Illinois when he signed with the Hurricanes out of East St. Louis High School. He chose to attend Miami over Louisville, Tennessee, and Illinois.

Thomas posted 563 yards and three touchdowns this year for the 6-5 Hurricanes. He's the second high-profile receiver to leave Miami this season, as the team previously lost Ahmmon Richards to a career-ending neck injury.