Lankford transferred to Hancock from East Tennessee State University. He rushed for 70 yards for ETSU, and scored a touchdown against Montana State. Lankford was a two-time All-State running back and Class I-A Mr. Football Award recipient at South Pittsburg High School. He set a school record with 366 rushing yards in a single-game. He finished his high school career with 5,400 rushing yards and 83 touchdowns. He is a business major.