As a freshman in 2021, Thornton notched nine receptions for 175 yards and two touchdowns.[3] In 2022, he appeared in 11 games for the Ducks with five starts, where he hauled in 17 receptions for 366 yards and a touchdown.[4] After the season, Thornton entered his name into the NCAA transfer portal.[5][6]
Tennessee
Thornton transferred to play for the Tennessee Volunteers.[7] In week 11 of the 2023 season, he hauled in a 46 yard touchdown but suffered a season-ending injury on the play versus Missouri.[8] In first season with the Volunteers in 2023, Thornton hauled in 13 receptions for 224 yards and one touchdown.[9] In the 2024 season opener, he hauled in three receptions for 105 yards and two touchdowns in a win over Chattanooga.[10] In week 11, Thornton hauled in three receptions for 104 yards and a touchdown in a win over Mississippi State.[11]