Thomas is the sophomore edge rusher who made an immediate impact as a reserve in 2018, earning near-unanimous Freshman All-American acclaim. Thomas enters 2019 credited with 43 tackles (10.5 for loss), 3.5 sacks and two pass breakups in 304 snaps over 15 games in 2018. Thomas has been selected as a second-team Preseason All-American for 2019 by both Phil Steele and Athlon.
Defensive coordinator Brent Venables told the media following Saturday’s scrimmage that if Thomas wants to be great, he has to bring it every play. If Thomas does that, it will prove he’s on his way to being great.