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Skinny: Thomas is a throwback player with great size to bang it between the tackles and enough running power to blow a hole open when necessary. He’s a former high school option quarterback that has great understanding of the game and is a load to bring down in the open field. While Thomas didn’t miss any time during his collegiate career, he’s been unable to workout for scouts as of late due to a nagging hamstring injury that not only cost him an opportunity to attend the Senior Bowl but also prevented him from working out at the combine. Regardless of the entire draft process, Thomas remains a very intriguing prospect due to his upside as a dominant interior runner capable of moving the chains at will.

2010: The Northwest Mississippi Community College JUCO transfer had a coming out party in 2009 as a junior, rushing for 1,265 yards and 11 touchdowns, earning 2009 Big 12 Newcomer of the Year. A former quarterback, Thomas possesses prototypical size and could see his draft stock soar with a cameo performance.

SCOUT'S TAKE

In his first season at the Division I level this Wildcat had the most productive season of any Big XII back in 2009, leading the conference in rushing and topping 100 yards five times while posting three other games of over 90 yards. In nine of 12 games Thomas averaged 4.5 yards per carry or better and more importantly, he performed well against the big foes. The Florida native rushed for 88 yards (5.5 yards per carry) against Oklahoma and 99 yards (5.2 yards per carry) against Nebraska, both on the road. Standing at 6’2” and 228 pounds he is blessed with prototypical size to go along with his outstanding athleticism. Thomas is a one-cut runner who shows very good ability in the open field once he reaches the second level. For a big physical back Thomas is very good at locating his blockers and waiting for his blocks to develop, displaying an understanding of the fact that gaining yards on the ground isn’t simply about the running back. Schematically the K-State product is unlimited as he can play in a smash mouth offense or one which calls for a speedy, slice and dice back. While he has an excellent body it’s not necessarily NFL perfect. His upper body is fantastic but his legs are a bit thin and lack the power you would expect for a man of his size. Thomas also lacks elite speed and will never be considered a burner at the next level. The Northwest Mississippi Community College JUCO transfer had a coming out party in 2009 as a junior, rushing for 1,265 yards and 11 touchdowns on his way to earning 2009 Big XII Newcomer of the Year honors. How will he respond in 2010? If Thomas can replicate or build on his production from his junior season and add leg strength, expect him to be the first senior back taken in the 2011 NFL Draft and potential a late, first round choice.

Head Shot Courtesy of Kansas State Athletics