Joe Thomas OT 6'8 303 Wisconsin 4.92

You know you have something special when an offensive lineman can play multiple positions. As a freshman, Thomas played on the offensive line, as a tight end, and even started a game at defensive end. As a sophomore, he became entrenched at left tackle for the Badgers and has not looked back since. As a junior, he was a consensus All American, and had the opportunity to declare for the draft until a torn ACL ended those thoughts in the Capital One Bowl. Thomas came back strong this year though, and regained the form he had shown in previous years and once again earned All America honors.

Thomas is the prototypical left tackle prospect. He has a long, lean frame with the room to add more weight as he gets bigger. He combines that size with excellent athleticism and agility. Thomas is a great pass protector with his mobility and his long arms, and easily adjusts to moves by the defender. In the running game, once he locks on to a defender, he’s not getting away. With his experience in the Big 10, he’s a player that will be ready to play from Day 1.

The only pressing issue with Thomas is the knee injury he suffered in January. Playing on the defensive line because of depth issues for the Badgers, he tore his right ACL. He needs to prove that he’s back at full strength and that there are no lingering issues with the knee.

Thomas proved he was healthy this year, and then checked out medically after the season. His impressive workouts have solidified him in the Top Five of the draft, and he could be a pro bowl caliber tackle in no time.