2020 Cocoa High Grad is all-time leading rusher in Florida college football history
BREVARD COUNTY • PALM BAY, FLORIDA – While some may have doubted the abilities of Tay Farmer, his belief in himself is undeniable!
The 5’9”, 190-pound running back from Palm Bay, Florida, made major waves this past fall by becoming the all-time leading rusher in Florida college football history. And now? He’s got his sights set on something even more significant: becoming the first-ever NFL draft pick from St. Thomas University.
Let’s be real — NAIA schools like St. Thomas don’t always get the spotlight. But Tay didn’t let that stop him. He used his four years there to grind and shine, putting up over 1,500 rushing yards for three straight seasons. Talk about consistency.
He’s shown he’s got the skills, the heart, and the hustle to make an impact at the next level. Tay credits that relentless work ethic to his parents — especially his late father, who always pushed him to chase greatness.
But this story starts before college. Tay first made a name for himself at Heritage High School, then finished strong at Cocoa High his senior year.
His mix of speed, strength, and insane footwork caught the attention of St. Thomas, and from there, he took off. By just his second college game as a freshman, he felt like he belonged. Then, in his sophomore year, he really broke out — earning SUN Conference Player of the Year and NAIA All-American honors.
Tay wasn’t done. As a junior, he leveled up again, scoring more touchdowns and leading the Bobcats to an impressive 9-2 season. But his senior year? Legendary. He hit 5,000 career rushing yards, becoming the first player in Florida collegiate history ever to do it.
At St. Thomas University, Farmer’s performance was remarkable. In 2021, he earned Second Team All-Conference honors, was named Offensive Player of the Week on September 13, rushed for 729 yards, averaged 7.1 yards per carry, and scored seven touchdowns.
Over his collegiate career, Farmer has become the all-time rushing leader in Florida college football, surpassing notable players like Dalvin Cook and Marques Burgess. As of October 2024, he had accumulated 4,955 career rushing yards, and he aspires to surpass the 5,000-yard mark.
Tay Farmer’s story isn’t just about records and stats — it’s about believing in yourself when no one else does. And if the NFL gives him a shot? Watch out.
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