NFL Draft Preview: Devin Thomas

Following his junior season, Michigan State Spartans wide receiver Devin Thomas will exit the college gridiron for an opportunity to earn the big bucks in the NFL. Several wide receivers in the 2008 NFL Draft will likely have their name announced before Devin Thomas, such as DeSean Jackson, Malcolm Kelly, and Mario Manningham; however, do not underestimate Thomas' playmaking abilities.

Thomas only produced one remarkable season with Michigan State, which could be a drawback that several NFL teams bear in mind. Nevertheless, he is a physical receiver with size and incredible leaping ability. Additionally, he is exceptional at moving the ball following a reception. Those types of intangibles by a wide receiver are very appealing to NFL coaches and scouts. Thomas is considerably fast and that was evident by his 4.40 in the 40-yard dash at the NFL combine. Michigan State often utilized his skills as a kick returner.

Thomas set a university record with 79 receptions and he tallied 1,260 yards throughout the season. Furthermore, he set a school record with 2,590 all-purpose yards. Thomas' production included 39 kick off returns for 1,135 yards.

As mentioned before, many critics consider Thomas as a one-season wonder that may have gained too much confidence and opted to jump to the NFL following one impressive season. Moreover, his lack of experience may cause some teams to show reluctance in selecting him.

As I browsed through several NFL mock drafts, Devin Thomas is expected to be selected somewhere in the early second round, which could make him a bargain. I have seen Thomas' name as low as the 47^th overall pick for the Minnesota Vikings (nfldraftcountdown.com) or even as low as the 51^st pick for the Washington Redskins (thefootballexpert.com).