CBS Sports RJ White has Thomas as the only Miami Hurricanes player being taken off the before the end of the third round. He projects Thomas to be selected by the Carolina Panthers 88th overall in the third round. Bleacher Report‘s Matt Miller also has Thomas slotted 88th.
White’s synopsis of Thomas said:
"“The Panthers need to bring in young talent at defensive end with Julius Peppers on his last legs”"
After starting 107 out of his first 112 games during his 14 years in the NFL with the Panthers, Chicago Bears and Green Bay Packers, Peppers started only 16 out of 32 the last two seasons. The included just five after returning to the Panthers last year.
Peppers 21 solo tackles and 33 total were the second lowest of his career. He did manage 11 sacks starting just five games and primarily playing in a part-time role.
Miller has one other Miami Hurricanes alum being selected Friday night. He projects Walton to the Buffalo Bills with the 96th overall pick late in the third round.
The Bills are coming off their first playoff appearance since 1999. They haven’t won a playoff game since 1995. That was ironically against their AFC Eastern Division rival Dolphins.