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2017 NFL Draft: Top 25 Big Board after Week 11

By Tyler Brooke

Oct 22, 2016; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Jonathan Allen (93) returns a fumble for a touchdown against the Texas A&M Aggies during the third quarter at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 22, 2016; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Jonathan Allen (93) returns a fumble for a touchdown against the Texas A&M Aggies during the third quarter at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 15, 2015; Stanford, CA, USA; Stanford Cardinal defensive tackle Solomon Thomas (90) celebrates after a tackle in the second quarter against the UCLA Bruins in a NCAA football game at Stanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 15, 2015; Stanford, CA, USA; Stanford Cardinal defensive tackle Solomon Thomas (90) celebrates after a tackle in the second quarter against the UCLA Bruins in a NCAA football game at Stanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

It’s never a sure thing that an underclassmen will declare for the NFL draft. However, if Stanford’s Solomon Thomas does decide to go pro after this season, there’s no reason he shouldn’t be a first-round pick.

Thomas saw his first playing time last season, and showed plenty of promise by racking up 10.5 tackles for loss. This year, Thomas has been on a tear once again, already racking up 12 tackles for loss and seven sacks.

Although Thomas might not be the biggest defensive lineman at 6’3” and 273 pounds, he is capable of making big plays thanks to his consistently low pad level and nice technique. His violent hands help him disengage and get through the line of scrimmage to create some chaos in the backfield.

If he decides to leave, Thomas will likely translate best as a five technique defensive end in a 3-4 scheme. If the right team is picking late in the first, that’s where he could hear his name get called.

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