As the 2024 NFL Draft season approaches, the Jacksonville Jaguars, among the 32 teams gearing up to bolster their rosters for a shot at the Lombardi Trophy, possess nine picks, including the 17th overall selection. In anticipation of April’s draft, we’ll assess individual prospects and their potential fit with the Jaguars, focusing on their strengths and how they align with the team’s needs. Today, we turn our attention to LSU wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr.
BACKGROUND:
Hailing from Louisiana, Thomas Jr. emerged as a highly touted recruit in the 2021 class, earning four-star status from 247Sports. His impressive high school career garnered attention from numerous top-tier programs before he ultimately committed to LSU. Thomas Jr. excelled in his collegiate journey, notably racking up 68 receptions for 1,177 yards and 17 touchdowns in the 2023 season, earning him Third-Team All-America and Second-Team All-SEC honors.
STRENGTHS:
Thomas Jr. stands out immediately with his imposing stature and exceptional length, making him a formidable presence on the field. He possesses explosive acceleration off the line of scrimmage, often outpacing defenders with his speed and forcing them into early adjustments. Additionally, his adept ball-tracking abilities and strong hands allow him to consistently reel in catches, particularly on deep routes. Thomas Jr. also showcases agility and elusiveness after the catch, transitioning seamlessly from receiver to ball-carrier.
FIT WITH THE JAGUARS:
Thomas Jr.’s unique blend of size, length, and speed would bring a valuable dimension to the Jaguars’ receiving corps. He offers a potential solution to their struggles in the red zone and provides quarterback Trevor Lawrence with another reliable target. However, while Thomas Jr. excels as a deep threat, he may not fulfill the Jaguars’ need for a contested catch specialist. Despite his impressive attributes, he may not perfectly align with what the team requires to maximize Lawrence’s effectiveness. Consequently, selecting him with the 17th pick may be a stretch, but he could be a more viable option if available later in the draft, such as at No. 48.
CONCLUSION:
Brian Thomas Jr.’s remarkable physical attributes and on-field performance have rightfully propelled him into the spotlight as a top prospect. While he offers tantalizing potential as a deep threat, concerns linger regarding his suitability as a contested-catch receiver, a role the Jaguars may prioritize. Therefore, despite his undeniable talent, selecting him at No. 17 might not be the optimal choice for the team’s current needs. However, if he falls to a later pick, he could present a more compelling option for consideration.
