Phillip Thomas (Fresno St.) - 2013 NFL Draft Pick #119 by WAS
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis: Phillip Thomas (Fresno State)
Position: Safety
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 210 lbs
Overview
Phillip Thomas was a standout safety at Fresno State, known for his playmaking ability and instinctive football IQ. He had an impressive college career that showcased his skills as both a strong safety and a ball hawk in the secondary.
Strengths
- Ball Skills: Thomas demonstrated excellent ball skills, recording multiple interceptions during his college career. His ability to track the ball and make plays in the air set him apart from other safety prospects.
- Instincts: He showed a high football IQ, often reading the quarterback's eyes and anticipating plays, making him a valuable asset in coverage.
- Physicality: Phillip was known for his aggressive tackling style, often delivering hard hits and being effective in run support.
- Versatility: He had the ability to play both safety positions and even line up in the box, making him a versatile piece for any defense.
Weaknesses
- Injury Concerns: Thomas had some injury history that raised red flags for scouts, particularly regarding his durability over a full NFL season.
- Coverage Skills: While effective in certain coverage situations, he could struggle against faster receivers in man-to-man scenarios.
Overall Assessment
Phillip Thomas was regarded as one of the top safety prospects in the 2013 NFL Draft. His combination of size, instincts, and ball skills made him a potential starter at the next level. However, teams would need to evaluate his injury history and overall coverage abilities before making a selection.
Projected Draft Position
Thomas was projected to be a mid-round pick in the 2013 NFL Draft, with the potential to rise depending on team needs and pre-draft evaluations.