Position: EDGE
Height: 6’2” (Verified)
Weight: 244 lbs (Verified)
School: Clemson
Clemson defensive lineman Xavier Thomas is a rare case in the transfer portal era. Not only is he a former five-star who stayed in school for six years; he stayed at the same school for all six seasons. Thomas was a highly-rated recruit in 2018, the same class that brought Trevor Lawrence to Clemson. Thomas almost declared for the draft earlier, but an injury derailed his 2022 season. He returned to Clemson for his sixth and final season and appeared in 12 games, totaling three sacks and four tackles for loss. Teams in the NFL will never stop valuing players who can get after the quarterback.
Florida State had to chip Xavier Thomas quite often. You can see fight through the chip and turn the corner on the RT and chase down Jordan Travis. pic.twitter.com/vB2k5iz0J2
— BOLTS Draft Talk (@BoltsDraftTalk) April 4, 2024
Thomas never saw elite production at Clemson, but the flashes were always there. He has great speed and burst off the edge, paired with a never-ending motor. Those traits paired together mean that Thomas has the potential to post significant backfield production at the NFL level. He may not be an every-down player at the next level, but he certainly has the ability to be a situational pass rusher. His value as a pass rusher gives him a floor of the fifth round.
Projection: Early to Mid Day-Three Pick
Best Fits: Los Angeles Rams, Atlanta Falcons, Philadelphia Eagles
Drafting role players has become a lost art. Far too many teams overinvest on high-ceiling, low-floor players on day three of the draft. It’s understandable given that picks are merely throwing darts at a board. However, there are players sitting there that can contribute for teams right away. Many coaches are simply looking for a guy who can play a role and be on the field for less than 20 snaps. One of those players is Xavier Thomas. His future in the NFL comes as a designated pass rusher. There’s nothing wrong with playing a role. Role players contribute to championships.
This long arm from Xavier Thomas is NASTY. Insubordinate & churlish
— Anthony Cover 1 (@Pro__Ant) April 9, 2024
Is there a world where Xavier Thomas becomes an every-down edge defender at the next level? It’s possible, but unlikely. Thomas’ best chance at becoming a player who is still in the NFL eight years from now comes as a specialist. Thomas has the burst, athleticism, and relentless motor to be a fantastic designated pass rusher. A team that takes Thomas should be looking to bring him in on third down and in specific packages. He lacks the lower body strength and size to be a true run defender at the NFL level. Using his athleticism and pass-rush ability is how he is going to get on the field in the pros.
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