Strengths:
Thomas has a style of play that an coaching staff will welcome to their team. He's tough, well built, high football IQ, and has a non-stop motor off the edge. Offers teams a nice blend of athleticsim and set of tools which will allow him to play all over the field in a 43 or 34 defense. Thomas is one of the more pro-ready pass rushers in the draft, as he has a well established pass repertoire and can impact the run game. In Stanford's bowl game against UNC, Thomas was an absolute monster and it was impossible for scouts to miss him. He is a great leader and high character type prospect.
Weaknesses:
Falls into the "tweener" category. Not long, lean and quick enough to be an edge rusher in a 43 defense. Also not a massive run-stuffer with ideal size to be a 5-tech in a 34 defense.
NFL Comparison: Shawn Merriman
Written by Rob Michels