Devin Thomas (Michigan St.) - 2008 NFL Draft Pick #34 by WAS
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Devin Thomas - 2008 NFL Draft
College: Michigan State University
Position: Wide Receiver
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 215 lbs
Overview:
Devin Thomas was a highly regarded wide receiver entering the 2008 NFL Draft after a standout season at Michigan State. Known for his size, speed, and playmaking ability, Thomas had the potential to make an immediate impact at the professional level.
Strengths:
- Size and Physicality: At 6'2" and 215 lbs, Thomas possessed an ideal frame for an NFL wide receiver, allowing him to shield defenders and win contested catches.
- Speed: His impressive speed made him a deep threat, capable of stretching the field and creating mismatches against defensive backs.
- Yards After Catch (YAC): Thomas demonstrated the ability to break tackles and gain additional yards after making receptions, showcasing his agility and strength.
- Route Running: While still developing, he displayed good route running skills, especially on slants and crossing routes, which could translate well to the NFL.
Weaknesses:
- Consistency: Thomas struggled with consistency in his production and catching ability, which raised concerns about his reliability as a target.
- Hands: There were questions regarding his catching technique, as he occasionally dropped passes that he should have secured.
- Experience: Having only one significant season of production at Michigan State, some teams worried about his limited experience at the college level.
Projected Draft Position:
Thomas was expected to be selected in the second to third round of the draft, with teams intrigued by his potential upside and physical tools. His performance in college, particularly during his junior year, had solidified him as one of the top wide receiver prospects in the draft.
Conclusion:
With the right coaching and development, Devin Thomas had the potential to become a reliable contributor in the NFL. His blend of size, speed, and athleticism made him a compelling prospect, though teams would need to ensure he could overcome his inconsistencies and hone his skills at the professional level.