Lawrence Thomas  6' 3" 230lbs. ILB 2011

Thomas is an athletic guy with the playing strength and speed to be extremely effective all over the field; possessing great size for the linebacker position at the major level of competition. On offense his ball catching skills are evident as a wide receiver. Shows good flexibility, agility and balance vs. both the run and pass for his size; lines up at the inside and outside backer spots however his ability to take on and defeat blockers coupled with pass rushing ability better suit him for the OLB

position at this stage of his career. Sees and reacts to the run soundly but is not a quick-twitched athlete. Plays downhill better than pursuing laterally. Is able to cover a lot of ground still showing great backside pursuit habits coupled with a very good closing burst. As a line of scrimmage player we see the size and strength to take on and defeat blockers. However his technique will need polish as he plays too tall at times and his shiver and shed need some work; at times will get caught stepping inside, getting hooked but his playing speed and reactions allow him to recover. Plays well in coverage, showing the ability to back peddle and get good depth vs. medium routes; displays very good instincts and ball skills; can intercept at the high point with a pick six to his credit. This is a tough wrap tackler, capable of creating fumbles with big hits; will punish the QB when given the opportunity. Demonstrates the ability to take on or avoid pass blockers with very good playing strength and change of direction moves; has a quick closing burst to the QB. While not overly fluid in space, this is a tireless player who doesn't take time off and is capable of game changing plays. Thomas could see early playing time while polishing his skills before moving into a starter's role. Could grow into an end in time. . . ..........................        Intangibles                        9 ...    Athleticism                        8      Size                        8   ...  Strength                        8      Quickness                        7      Ball skills                        7      Speed                        8      Cut back                        8      Potential                         9      Technique                         8 Overall score   80

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