Brian Thomas Jr. NFL Draft Overview
In recent NFL history, Louisiana State University, also known as LSU, has become undisputed WR University. From Odell & Landry to Chase & Jefferson, the NFL has been dominated by elite LSU WRS. Brian Thomas Jr is next on that list as he has declared for the NFL Draft. The former 4-star 69th overall recruit exploded on the scene with All-SEC Honors 68 catches, 1,177 yards, and 17 TDS. Thomas Jr has elite size, vertical speed, and superstar potential. However, can Brian Thomas Jr reach his potential to be among the LSU elites? Let’s Dig into the film!
Position: Wide Receiver
Height: 6’4 (Unofficial)
Weight: 205 (Unofficial)
Age: 21 years old
School: LSU
Brian Thomas Jr. Player Evaluation
Thomas Jr.’s Strengths
- Gets on the corner’s toes with ease in off-coverage. He explodes off the line quickly in press coverage and is uncatchable with his elite speed.
- He has surprisingly quick and fluid movement skills for his size. Shows flashes of elite YAC threat potential.
- Good hands. Good Tracker of the football when it’s in the air and finishes plays with soft hands. He has flashes of catching the ball at the apex.
- Solid route runner and has flashes of crisp routes to be an elite number one WR potentially down the road. Crisp start and stop ability.
- He has a solid frame that he added weight to, which helped increase his production and play on the field.
Thomas Jr.’s Weakness
- Needs more refinement, coordination, and consistency in his route-running skills.
- He is tough in fighting through contact but needs to be more physical and use his size at the line of scrimmage and in contested catch situations.
- Inconsistent ability to catch the jump ball at the apex.
- He got better with added weight but still needs to improve.
- Has boom or bust potential
Projection: Mid to Late First Round Pick
NFL Comparison: Christian Watson
Best Fits: Houston Texans, Jacksonville Jaguars, and the Kansas City Chiefs.
Bottom Line
Brian Thomas Jr is a day-one starting X Vertical speed Receiver in the NFL. He best serves as a number 2 WR next to an elite established number 1 WR while he develops. The size, speed, athleticism, and good hands are all there for Thomas Jr to produce on day one. The flashes of elite hands at the apex and elite route running make him an intriguing prospect with elite potential. If Thomas Jr refines his weakness and continues to add weight, the sky is the limit.
Main Photo: Matt Pendleton-USA TODAY Sports
