Ole Miss star running back Kewan Lacy signed a deal to return for the Rebels in 2026, sources told ESPN on Monday.

The All-America running back ranks third nationally in rushing yards with 1,464 yards and 23 touchdowns and has helped lead the Rebels to the College Football Playoff semifinals in his debut season.

Ole Miss secured a commitment from Lacy in its ongoing efforts to retain top returning players amid former coach Lane Kiffin’s departure to LSU.

The first-team All-SEC performer was expected to be a priority target for the Tigers if he entered the portal after running backs coach Kevin Smith agreed to join Kiffin in Baton Rouge.

The sophomore running back from Dallas transferred to Ole Miss after a year at Missouri and developed into one of the SEC’s top offensive playmakers, surpassing 100 yards from scrimmage in eight games, including a career-high 229 yards against Florida.

Lacy rushed for 98 yards and two touchdowns in the Rebels’ 39-34 win over No. 3 Georgia in the CFP quarterfinal at the Allstate Sugar Bowl last Thursday. They’ll face No. 10 seed Miami in the semifinal at the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl on Thursday.

New Ole Miss coach Pete Golding and school officials have secured commitments from a several key starters to remain in the program in 2026 rather than enter the transfer portal after the season.

Ole Miss star quarterback Trinidad Chambliss also announced Monday he planned to return pending the approval of an NCAA waiver for an additional year of eligibility.

Chambliss was one of seven Rebels players who announced Monday they’ll be back next season.