The Longhorns lit up the recruiting scoreboard with the commitment of Louisiana offensive lineman Garrett Thomas. Thomas is the fourth offensive lineman committed to the Horns in this cycle, and the third out of state prospect the Horns have grabbed as they broaden their national recruiting profile.
Despite being a composite three star (247sports.com ), Thomas boasts an impressive offer list. Texas won his commitment over competition from Michigan, Ole Miss, Oklahoma, Auburn, South Carolina, and Oklahoma State. Credit goes once again to Joe Wickline who has clearly defined his preferred type of prospect and prevailed in yet another recruitment.
The Longhorns landed their tackle prospects early in the recruiting class with the commitments of Ronnie Major and Toby Weathersby. Thomas profiles as an interior player at the next level, joining early commit Patrick Vahe in the mix at guard or center. But Thomas is an intriguing prospect anywhere along the line, giving Wickline the flexibility needed to pursue any final difference makers that are interested in joining the Longhorns.
With this commitment it would seem that the offensive line class is close to being full. There is still a possibility Texas could accept one or two more pledges before closing up shop.
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Film Analysis:
Thomas has a large, developed frame at 6’5, 310 lbs. While he shows the ability to move well in space, Thomas really shines as an in-line blocker. His strong lower half allows him to excel at run blocking. On film, Thomas shows the ability to lock on and drive his man down the field before finishing him off. He also shows an ability to get to the second level and contribute to a play by blocking multiple defenders.
In pass blocking, Thomas plays a bit on his heels and is inconsistent with his hands. Thomas is not as much a technician as he is a mauler. If played at tackle, he looks like he could have some problems with speed rushers off the edge. While Thomas can play a bit high at times, he shows some real flexibility that allows for him to recover when initially beat off the line. Thomas also displays the physical mentality Wickline seems to value in his players. The biggest thing that stands out on film is his work rate. Thomas is a high motor player who is always looking to finish the play.
Final Verdict:
There are definitely some rough edges for Thomas and Wickline to polish in the young man’s overall game, but Thomas has all the necessary tools to be successful at the collegiate level. Thomas will require some coaching to clean up his technique, but his projectable frame and football mentality will help him in that growth. At this point, Thomas is a ball of clay with loads of potential, and could blossom into a multi-year starter under Wickline if he reaches that potential.
