In the past few weeks, we have profiled a couple of 2020 offensive line prospects in Tristan Wirfs and Jedrick Wills. After the Trai Turner trade, the Panthers may be even desperate for offensive line help. Russell Okung is a serviceable left tackle if he’s healthy, but that is a big if at this point in his career. Okung is not a long-term solution in any case, so we still can’t rule out Carolina taking an OL in the first round. Let’s take a look at another one of their options: Georgia’s Andrew Thomas.
Scouting report:
Thomas measured in at 6-foot-5, 318 pounds with 36 inch arms at the NFL Scouting Combine. Although he did not test that well in athletic drills, Thomas is extremely fluid for his size and projects well at either tackle position or guard. He is a physically imposing player that uses his natural power to his advantage. Thomas has tremendous power throughout his frame and uses his strong hands to win at the point of attack. His pass protection sets are high quality, as he moves his feet and leverages well.
Thomas understands all the pass protection concepts and is able to stop even the bendiest of edge rushers. However, he does need to improve his patience with his body control because he sometimes gets caught lunging when going against speedy edge rushers.
Also, if Thomas wants to make a successful switch to guard at the next level, he will have to improve on his pull blocks and the angles he takes to clear out the second level. Overall, Thomas is an awesome offensive line prospect and has tremendous potential.
Highlights:
Thomas vs. LSU
Thomas vs. Notre Dame
Thomas vs. Texas
Thomas vs. Vanderbilt
Thomas vs. Arkansas St.
Fit With Panthers:
Thomas is an extremely talented left tackle that brings three years of experience to the table. If the Panthers plan to keep Okung at left tackle, they could easily flip Thomas over to right tackle or even move him inside to guard. Carolina could finally find their left tackle of the future in Thomas and even get some immediate impact from him in his rookie year.
