WR: Devin Thomas, Michigan State

[admarc]

http://static.nfl.com/static/content/public/image/getty/2008/09000d5d8074fc08_gallery_600.jpg
6-2 218 Junior

Stats: (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/player/profile?playerId=183856) REC 79 | YDS 1,260 | TD 8

Video: #1 (http://video.aol.com/video-detail/brian-hoyer-td-pass/542240939), #2, (http://video.aol.com/video-detail/brian-hoyer-td-pass/1622360155) #3, (http://video.aol.com/video-detail/brian-hoyer-td-pass/4037350148) #4 (http://video.aol.com/video-detail/devin-thomas-kick-return/673491826) ,#5 (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/specials/draft/2008/video/?c=Mock%20Draft&p=215913&s=3030185&i=232289)

Merk's Notes:

Thomas is an interesting prospect and prob one of the harder evals in this draft

The things I like about him
-Very explosive
-Fast
-Not just A to B fast like a Kennison or a Ginn Jr he's got good agility and quickness and can make people miss
-Gives you value at both WR and KR
-Good open field runner
-Explosive first step
-Produced throughout the year even though it became apparent that he was there offense. Teams adjusted and he still put up numbers
-Good vision
-Not afraid of any part of the field
-Has the ability to score anywhere on the field

The things I dont like
-Still a raw route runner
-Hands can be questionable
-There is no way I could know this w/out talking to him but there are questions about his mental game. This could be a problem when he has to identify coverages from the WR spot which for an NFL WR is mandatory
-One year wonder. This is the biggest concern w/ me because usually I'm pretty skeptical of one year guys. If he had gone back and put up similar numbers its not a question of if he would go in the top 10 but where would he go. Teams adjusted to him in season but give them a whole offseason and I would have like to see how Thomas would have reacted in Produced

admarc's notes:

Thomas has a rare combination of size and speed and showed he has the ability to translate that into production by putting together an impressive junior season with 79 receptions for 1,260 yards and 8 TDs. Thomas’ greatest asset is his run after catch ability and his fearlessness over the middle of the field. He uses his size well and will lower his shoulder and deliver a shot to the defender or smoothly change direction to run past them. He has a knack for finding the end zone and would be a good fit in a west coast style offense. While it is too early to know exactly what new Bills offensive coordinator Turk Schonert has in mind for the Bills passing game, his history indicates he may bring some elements of the west coast offense, which will also suit Quarter Back Trent Edwards. Evans on the outside going deep and Thomas on crossing patterns over the middle has the potential to be an effective pairing

RECEIVING G Rec Yds TD Lg Rec/G Avg/C Avg/G
2006................ 10 6 90 1 38 0.6 15.0 9.0
2007................ 12 75 1226 8 80 6.2 16.3 102.2


TOTAL............... 22 81 1316 9 80 3.7 16.2 59.8

Bio: (http://msuspartans.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/thomas_devin00.html)
Heads into preseason camp as one of the top candidates at one of the starting wide receiver slots . . . AS A SOPHOMORE: Appeared in the first 10 games of the 2006 season . . . had six receptions for 90 yards . . . caught a career-high four passes for 82 yards vs. Indiana, including a 38-yard touchdown pass from Drew Stanton in the first quarter . . . blocked a punt in the fourth quarter that Ashton Henderson returned 33 yards for a touchdown vs. Northwestern, helping spark the greatest comeback in NCAA I-A history as MSU rallied for a 41-38 victory over the Wildcats . . . enrolled at Michigan State on Jan. 9, 2006, for the beginning of the spring semester . . . JUNIOR COLLEGE, HIGH SCHOOL AND PERSONAL DATA: Ranked among the nation's top 20 JUCO prospects by Rivals.com (No. 15) and Fab50recruiting.com . . . earned second-team All- Jayhawk Conference honors in 2005 . . . played for Coach Jeff Leiker at Coffeyville (Kan.) Community College where he helped the Red Ravens to a 9-3 record in 2005 and a No. 9 ranking in the final NJCAA Poll . . . led the Red Ravens in receptions with 33 for 674 yards (20.4 avg.) and five touchdowns as a red-shirt freshman . . . finished No. 7 in receiving yards in NJCAA Region VI (61.3 per game) . . . his 1,161 all-purpose yards ranked second on the team . . . ranked No. 10 in the region in all-purpose yards, averaging 105.5 per game . . . returned 15 kickoffs for 339 yards (22.6 avg.), including a season-long 41- yarder . . . returned three punts for 92 yards (30.7 avg.) . . . gained 56 yards on five rushes (11.2 avg.) . . . had two catches for 38 yards vs. Georgia Military in the Golden Isles Bowl Classic, including a 29-yard TD grab from Trent Stepps in the second quarter . . . named NJCAA Offensive Player of the Week after hauling in five passes for 167 yards (33.4 avg.) and two TDs in Coffeyville's 40-26 second-round playoff win over No. 7 Garden City . . . returned two punts for 91 yards vs. Fort Scott, including a season-long 50-yarder in the second quarter that set up a touchdown . . . earned Jayhawk Conference Offensive Player of the Week honors for his Sept. 10 performance vs. Hutchinson . . . caught two passes for 74 yards vs. Hutchinson, including a 24-yard TD reception from Woody Wilson and a 50-yard grab that set up another score . . . had four receptions for 116 yards (29.0 avg.) vs. Highland, scoring on TD strikes of 43 and 56 yards from Wilson . . . redshirted in 2004 . . . attended the same junior college that produced former Spartan wide receiver Kerry Reed . . . played against current Spartan Nehemiah Warrick (Hutchinson) in junior college . . . two-year starter for Coach Tim Baechler at Canton (Mich.) High School . . . Detroit Free Press all-state (Division 1) selection in 2003 . . . earned second-team All-Metro honors from The Detroit News as a senior . . . named to The Detroit News and Detroit Free Press All-West Teams in 2003 . . . intercepted six passes as a senior, returning one 54 yards for a TD vs. Livonia Churchill . . . accounted for more than 1,000 all-purpose yards and 18 TDs in 2003 . . . rushed for nearly 600 yards in 2003 . . . had 17 receptions for 440 yards (25.9 avg.) as a senior . . . began his prep football career at Ann Arbor (Mich.) Huron . . . born Nov. 15, 1986 . . . majoring in sociology.
http://pictopia.com/perl/get_image?provider_id=503&size=550x550_mb&ptp_photo_id=2765534

[wpod]

http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/profile.php?pyid=67905

6-2, 218, 4.45

- 79 catches, 1,226 yards, 8 TDs
- 2,590 all-purpose yards (top KR, too)
- I would sign a top UFA WR (e.g., D.J. Hackett; Bryant Johnson; etc.); Thomas is a 3rd round development and insurance pick who can contribute right away on special teams.

[admarc]

Bills | Team talks with D. Thomas
Sat, 23 Feb 2008 00:19:17 -0800
Michigan State WR Devin Thomas (http://www.kffl.com/player/18231/nfl) said during his 2008 NFL Scouting Combine (http://www.kffl.com/link/183) interview that he has talked with the Buffalo Bills (http://www.kffl.com/team/9/nfl).


I really like Thomas, he isn't one of the 6-4 guys but at 6-1 218 he isn't a smurf by any means either. He has good hands, explodes in and out of cuts, returns punts and should run in the 4.45 range. We have him ranked as the 11th WR and #59 overall right now, but he could make a move up this week.

[admarc]

He just ran a 4.34 and now needs to join the discussion of who is the best WR in this class.

[treydawg]

Definitely a nice time. I still like Hardy. We don't need another burner with Evans and Parrish already on the roster.

[gilchristfan]

4.32 on his second run.

He just made some money today

[wpod]

Crap; right now I have him in the late second (after a trade down) in my Bills mock...obviously, he might not last that long now. He still only has one really productive season of college football, so we'll see. I was hoping he would run in the low 4.4s, not the low 4.3s - that's a mild shock.

[gilchristfan]

Definitely a nice time. I still like Hardy. We don't need another burner with Evans and Parrish already on the roster.


He has 3-4 inches and 20-30 lbs on both Evans and Parrish, minimum.

People keep talking about how we need a big receiver. What's wrong with getting a big receiver who runs a 4.32 40?

He could be a one year wonder, but if I'm at OBD, I spend extra time watching film of this guy.

That doesn't mean I'm dissing Hardy, at all, and I doubt they would be at OBD.

Interesting though, the 2 WR's we know the Bills have talked to...Hardy and Thomas.

Both have shown something today.

[imontoya]

i think him and Caldwell go in the first now.

[emo]

his 40 is impressive, to say the least but his production worries me. I'd honestly just rather see buffalo take hardy at 11, and go from there

[admarc]

Few in this draft can match his size/speed ratio and production this year. The only knock is he only produced at a high level for 1 year.

[wpod]

his 40 is impressive, to say the least but his production worries me. I'd honestly just rather see buffalo take hardy at 11, and go from there

I don't want them to take any WR at #11; they'll sign one in FA to start at #2 WR. I do want them to draft a WR early, but not in the first round. There are still a lot of needs on this roster.

[gilchristfan]

i think him and Caldwell go in the first now.


Could be. At the very least, I don't see Thomas getting by Al Davis in the 2nd.

[emo]

a legit number 1 wr is a gaping hole on this offense

and really pat sims? please

[admarc]

his 40 is impressive, to say the least but his production worries me. I'd honestly just rather see buffalo take hardy at 11, and go from there

79 receptions for 1,260 yards and 8 tds seems pretty productive to me.

Stats: (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/player/profile?playerId=183856)

REC 79 | YDS 1,260 | TD 8

[gilchristfan]

hmmm, this thread seems to be getting a little attention now. Wonder why? :)

I wish I was this guy's agent right about now.

[emo]

79 receptions for 1,260 yards and 8 tds seems pretty productive to me.

Stats: (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/player/profile?playerId=183856)

REC 79 | YDS 1,260 | TD 8

yeah? how'd he do the year before?

[treydawg]

I have no problem with Thomas but I think Hardy's size/speed combination is unreal. Look at his TD numbers! The guy will be an immediate upgrade to our RZ offense.

[gilchristfan]

I have no problem with Thomas but I think Hardy's size/speed combination is unreal. Look at his TD numbers! The guy will be an immediate upgrade to our RZ offense.

I think they both have pretty good speed/size combo's. Both have shown productivity. (2500 all purpose yards in one season?).

Hardy creates an obvious physical mismatch, and has shown he has enough speed that a QB won't have to wait a week for him to get open.

Thomas just showed breakaway speed, plus enough size to beat a jam at the line.

I think there are others in round 2 that would probably help also. As I said before, its going to be an interesting 2nd round.

[wpod]

a legit number 1 wr is a gaping hole on this offense

and really pat sims? please

They're not even looking for a #1 WR; they're looking for a big possession receiver to complement Evans. And yes, getting a bigger DT to push Kyle Williams into the backup rotation has already been acknowledged as one of the top, if not the top priority by both Modrak and Jauron, and Balmer and Sims have specifically been named.

[treydawg]

How much longer will Evans be here? You have to protect yourself for the future.

[Mouldsie]

MSU didnt really open things up until this year

[admarc]

NFL Draft Scout (http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/profile.php?pyid=67905) reports that Devin Thomas (http://www.buffalorange.com/showthread.php?t=128734) has scheduled a visit to Buffalo for a private workout and interviews. Thomas said during Michigan State's pro day workout that the only other scheduled visit was with the Vikings.

Davis ran a 4.4 at the combine and did not run teh 40 again at Michigan State's pro day. he is considered a late first to early second round propsect.

[JayHall93]

he's a good option at WR. He's a projected 2nd rounder.

[LotteryPick]

I have seen some sites rating him as the #1 WR. Is it possible the Bills are thinking of taking him at 11? That can't be, can it?

[Buffalo13]

I think it would have to be for our second rounder. Could it be some sort of smoke screen?

[admarc]

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" bgColor=#e4e7ee border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=left>Devin Thomas to Visit Buffalo (http://www.billsinsider.com/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=14667)</TD><TD vAlign=top align=right width=8 height=16>http://www.billsinsider.com/themes/bills/images/storybox-title-right2.gif</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD>http://www.billsinsider.com/themes/bills/images/pixel.gif</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=5 width="100%" bgColor=#eeeeee border=0><TBODY><TR><TD>Thursday, March 13, 2008 - 01:22 PM

http://www.billsinsider.com/images/topics/buf.gif (http://www.billsinsider.com/index.php?name=News&catid=&topic=3) WR prospect Devin Thomas has scheduled a visit to Buffalo. Thomas mentioned at Michigan State's pro day workout that the only other private workout and interview at a team location that he has scheduled is with the Minnesota Vikings.

Thomas ran a 4.4 40 yard dash at the combine and did not run again at the pro day. He is considered a late 1st round - mid 2nd round prospect.

Gil Brandt reports that at the pro day, he had a 33-inch vertical jump, 16 reps in the bench press. He had a good workout and kept all his other numbers from the combine

Discuss the possibilities of the Bills selecting Devin Thomas (http://www.buffalorange.com/showthread.php?t=128734) in the Buffalo Range War Room. (http://www.buffalorange.com/forumdisplay.php?f=106)

Source: NFLDraftScout.com (http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/profile.php?pyid=67905)





</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

[imontoya]

i think they bring in guys they don't have much film on or still have questions about. They brought in Lynch, but not Whitner. I doubt they feel like they know enough about Thomas since he was only productive for one year.

I think he'll be gone by our pick in the 2nd.

[gilchristfan]

I'm really glad they're looking at him. But I agree with Imontoya, I don't expect him there at round 2.

[TheAnswer74]

I have seen some sites rating him as the #1 WR. Is it possible the Bills are thinking of taking him at 11? That can't be, can it?

I doubt it, but I could see them keeping #11 for another position if they dont think there is a WR worth #11 and then trading back into the late 1st or early 2nd and grabbing him.

[admarc]

I doubt it, but I could see them keeping #11 for another position if they dont think there is a WR worth #11 and then trading back into the late 1st or early 2nd and grabbing him.

That's basically the strategy they used the last two years when they traded up for McCargo and Poz, even though Poz was taken in the 2nd round. I can see that, because Thomas, Doucet, Caldwell and Sweed all project in that late 1st - early 2nd round range. So either a trade down or up seems appropriate. If they don't sign a WR in free agency, I am not sure they would be willing to gamble that which ever of the 1st or 2nd tier WRs would drop to them.

Of course, few projected Donte Whitner as a high first round pick and the Bills took him anyway. In any case, I think we probably shouldn't be reading too much into this visit. As Imontoya mentioned, it is not that unusual to schedule meetings with Juniors to gather additional information because the NCAA restricts access to underclassmen. So this may just be due dilligence, but as Gil said, I am also glad they are taking a close look at Thomas.

[Mouldsie]

the only thing i dont like about his athleticism is I wish the vertical was higher...


but as far as toughness goes I'm taking this guys balls over Hardy, Sweed and Kelly. Maybe he can be an Eric Moulds type? Thats what I want

[admarc]

the only thing i dont like about his athleticism is I wish the vertical was higher...


but as far as toughness goes I'm taking this guys balls over Hardy, Sweed and Kelly. Maybe he can be an Eric Moulds type? Thats what I wantDid you see the thread about the vertical at the combine (http://www.buffalorange.com/showthread.php?t=135331). Mike Mayock reported yesterday they think the officials measured the arm lengths wrong which lowered the scores. That's why the verticals that are being reported at the pro-days are coming in much higher.

[beTough54]

To me one year of productivity after many seasons of invisibility indicates somebody playing for a contract. Sure, this guy might have the talent to be a great WR but you have to question his dedication when the only time it all comes together is right before he is draft eligible.

[trentsteam]

From Michigan State any thoughts on if he would be a good pick, see the NFL network has us taking him. Marshall Faulk must not know the bills at all. He says we need a left tackle and said Fairchild did a great job with Edwards. Also questions the new offense.

[billsfan51]

Marshall Faulk really made himself look stupid on national TV. Sort of like Emmitt Smith does every Sunday on ESPN when he picks the Cowboys to win over any team. All of a sudden a lot of draft "experts" are focusing on Devin Thomas as the #1 WR in the draft. IDK, I think it has more to do with the fact that Kelly didn't run the 40, so maybe foot speed is a question?

[JayHall93]

The only reservation i have with thomas is he only had 1 year of good production.

that's a risky pick.

[MouldsMania80]

Even if Malcolm Kelly doesnt have blazing fast speed who cares? We already have two guys for that (Parrish, and Evans). We need a Tall, physical player who has good hands and can score in the red zone. I could be wrong but I believe that Thomas is only 6'1", while that isnt short, its still no 6'4"

[FknGvna]

He's a high riser but from my observation this guy is a gem. He runs Excellent routes. He knows his lanes and he has breakaway speed. Doesn't need height because he attacks the ball. My only this is can we draft a Devin Thomas clone in the third in Andre Caldwell?

[Buffalo13]

One year of production....lots of upside.....reminds me of Erik Flowers. I'd have no problem taking him later, but not in round 1 or two. WR is far too important a need for us to gamble like that. Infact, no matter what position we take with 11, I really hope the guy has both the measurables and the production to back it up.

[Mouldsie]

playing for a contract? lol




to me it indicates coaching.
willie parker was a backup at UNC

[gilchristfan]

A decent enough article on him:

http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2007712280355

He ended up at Coffeyville because of grades. He wouldn't be the first.

[Blofan4life]

This stock has been rising like crazy lately. Maye he is a late bloomer and came on his senior year and is continuing this now. Unlike a lot of the guys people think we should take, this guy actually played a full season year without any injuries which I think is important. Either way, now that we didn't get a FA Wr i think it is almost a must to trade in the draft to get a dominate TE and a WR.

[buffalocalzone]

Now That The B. Johnson Saga Is Over, The Bills Really Need Totake A Good Hard Look At This Kid, He's Fast, His Yac Are Phenomenal And He Averaged 30yards On Kick-off Returns Last Year, He Is The Perfect Compliment To Lee Evans "and" He's Played In Cold Weather Games Being From Michigan- What Do You Think, It's Either Wide Reciver Or Cornerback With This Pick

[JayHall93]

i'd have no problem drafting this guy, but not at #11. we are prime to trade down in the draft, and then, trade back up in the 1st. we could easily have two first rounders in the 20's if we play our cards right.

[TheAnswer74]

I'll say this only 1 time so I dont get kicked off the board.

Devin Thomas reminds me of Andre Reed. The way he runs after catch.

Hes like beast mode at WR.

[buffalocalzone]

I'll say this only 1 time so I dont get kicked off the board.

Devin Thomas reminds me of Andre Reed. The way he runs after catch.

Hes like beast mode at WR.

I COULDNT HAVE SAID IT BETTER MYSELF

[BillsCAfan]

With our second round pick, without a doubt, I'd be all over him. At 11? No. I would also be open to trading down in the 20's and then drafting the kid. He's sick!

Also, there is no such thing as cold weather college football player.

[nickd]

I'll say this only 1 time so I dont get kicked off the board.

Devin Thomas reminds me of Andre Reed. The way he runs after catch.

Hes like beast mode at WR.

I agree he may be a steal in the draft

[TheAnswer74]

I agree he may be a steal in the draft

If we get him in the 2nd. In the 1st, especially at 11, most people would call it a reach.

But if you just look at the size, strength, speed, and RAC ability he has 1st round written all over him.

IMO, he is the only WR with everything.

Size
Speed
Hands
RAC
Vertical
Strength
Return ability
Good Character

I dont think Sweed, Hardy, or Kelly have those things. Its just the 1 year of production which is scary. But then again, that 1 year was impressive.

[buffalocalzone]

If we get him in the 2nd. In the 1st, especially at 11, most people would call it a reach.

But if you just look at the size, strength, speed, and RAC ability he has 1st round written all over him.

IMO, he is the only WR with everything.

Size
Speed
Hands
RAC
Vertical
Strength
Return ability
Good Character

I dont think Sweed, Hardy, or Kelly have those things. Its just the 1 year of production which is scary. But then again, that 1 year was impressive.

True true- the one year of production is scary, but agree with you on that he has much more to offer than the other receivers in this draft, it'll be interesting to se what we do

[SHINEdown30]

I take it your seen the NFL state of the franchise yesterday. At #11 were not taking Thomas. He won't be returning kicks/punts because we have some of the best in the league no. At 6-2 hes lacking the size we need. Hes more of the faster WR type, we need a tall possesion receiver.

[buffalocalzone]

That's exactly what i saw last night and it was pretty accurate, but do you draft the receiver with the best talent on the board or do you take the second or 3rd best reciver because he's taller

[BillsCAfan]

Doesn't it scary anyone that he only had one great season in college. He was a JJ transfer, did nothing his first year (offensive faults can be argued) and then broke out his last year.

He has potential, but it's way to risky to give him #11 money for one year of college production.

I would trade down to get him, but at 11.......you're taking a bigger risk than you would with Thomas than you would with Sweed and Kelley.

[f8ta1ity54]

@ # 11 no way. trade down or pick someone else.

[nickd]

he should be there in the 2nd round i dont think its too much of a gamble there

[admarc]

It's important to note, when looking at Thomas' stats, that he was a Junior College transfer and he left college as a Junior. So there really was only one year where he failed to produce and that was in his first year on a major program as a red shirt sophomore. For what ever reason, Michigan State's former coaching staff failed to utilize Thomas, despite his apparent ability.

Here is the bio on his Junior College days:

JUNIOR COLLEGE, HIGH SCHOOL AND PERSONAL DATA: Ranked among the nation's top 20 JUCO prospects by Rivals.com (No. 15) and Fab50recruiting.com . . . earned second-team All- Jayhawk Conference honors in 2005 . . . played for Coach Jeff Leiker at Coffeyville (Kan.) Community College where he helped the Red Ravens to a 9-3 record in 2005 and a No. 9 ranking in the final NJCAA Poll . . . led the Red Ravens in receptions with 33 for 674 yards (20.4 avg.) and five touchdowns as a red-shirt freshman . . . finished No. 7 in receiving yards in NJCAA Region VI (61.3 per game) . . . his 1,161 all-purpose yards ranked second on the team . . . ranked No. 10 in the region in all-purpose yards, averaging 105.5 per game . . . returned 15 kickoffs for 339 yards (22.6 avg.), including a season-long 41- yarder . . . returned three punts for 92 yards (30.7 avg.) . . . gained 56 yards on five rushes (11.2 avg.) . . . had two catches for 38 yards vs. Georgia Military in the Golden Isles Bowl Classic, including a 29-yard TD grab from Trent Stepps in the second quarter . . . named NJCAA Offensive Player of the Week after hauling in five passes for 167 yards (33.4 avg.) and two TDs in Coffeyville's 40-26 second-round playoff win over No. 7 Garden City . . . returned two punts for 91 yards vs. Fort Scott, including a season-long 50-yarder in the second quarter that set up a touchdown . . . earned Jayhawk Conference Offensive Player of the Week honors for his Sept. 10 performance vs. Hutchinson . . . caught two passes for 74 yards vs. Hutchinson, including a 24-yard TD reception from Woody Wilson and a 50-yard grab that set up another score . . . had four receptions for 116 yards (29.0 avg.) vs. Highland, scoring on TD strikes of 43 and 56 yards from Wilson . . . redshirted in 2004 . . . attended the same junior college that produced former Spartan wide receiver Kerry Reed . . . played against current Spartan Nehemiah Warrick (Hutchinson) in junior college

[TigerJ]

I wouldn't mind drafting Devin Thomas, but not at #11. The one concern I have is not the fact that Kelly is a couple inches taller, but the fact that Thomas had one of the less impressive vertical jumps. He did a litttle better at his pro day, increasing his vertical from 28 inches to 33 inches, but that can still allow a shorter CB with a great vertical jump to fight for the ball on a high toss into the end zone.

[admarc]

I wouldn't mind drafting Devin Thomas, but not at #11. The one concern I have is not the fact that Kelly is a couple inches taller, but the fact that Thomas had one of the less impressive vertical jumps. He did a litttle better at his pro day, increasing his vertical from 28 inches to 33 inches, but that can still allow a shorter CB with a great vertical jump to fight for the ball on a high toss into the end zone.

The combine vertical jump numbers were incorrect. According to Mike Mayock the officials measured everyones arm length incorrectly, which lowered the scores. The 33" is not an amazing number, but still acceptable. He did also post a 10'-6 long jump, which was the 6th best mark at the combine.

[kdhammond]

I'd have little problem with the Bills selecting Devin Thomas.

[Blofan4life]

I am kinda confused on the round and what spot this guy will go. I have been looking at mock drafts for abut 2 weeks and I seen this guy go from the early third to like the 20th pick overall. Do you think the Bills will be able to get him with their second pick???? I really wouldn't want to get him in the first but maybe we could do something like what we did with Poz last year and trade up in the early second???

[billsin2050]

I take it your seen the NFL state of the franchise yesterday. At #11 were not taking Thomas. He won't be returning kicks/punts because we have some of the best in the league no. At 6-2 hes lacking the size we need. Hes more of the faster WR type, we need a tall possesion receiver.

I dont think we should take Thomas at #11 either, but Jerry Rice was 6-2 and quite a good possesson receiver...6-2 is a good size, and you dont need to be a "keyshawn johnson" possession receiver...the patriots possession receiver was wes welker...the biggest reason we need some height is so a player can use his frame to get receptions, at 6-2 this can be done, also its for jump type balls in the red zone...i think our biggest problem last year was the red zone on offense, so many times we sputtered there cause we had no one with any height to get open, i think thomas could do that, but not sure of him at 11..l just hate teh term possession receiver, it makes me think keyshawn and mike williams players...if thomas is teh best wr...if you have two number 1 receivers, someone will be open especially at 6-2 with hops

[TheGoodShepherd]

I don't think anyone can beat Hardy's production in college. His touchdown totals year after year is the definition of excellence.

[admarc]

Thomas has taken over the #1 WR position on NFL Draft Scout's rankings (http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/players.php?genpos=WR&draftyear=2008&sortorder=tsxpos&order=ASC). He is now #18 overall. (http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/top64.php?draftyear=2008)

[FinNasty]

Thomas has taken over the #1 WR position on NFL Draft Scout's rankings (http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/players.php?genpos=WR&draftyear=2008&sortorder=tsxpos&order=ASC). He is now #18 overall. (http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/top64.php?draftyear=2008)

What do you think about his drops?

[admarc]

What do you think about his drops? Based on the games I watched and from what I have read up on him, he has great hands. Mayock must have watched a tape of a game where he had a drop or two and is basing his oppinnion on that, but I have seen him make some great catches. He catches everything in his hands and will leap up to attack the ball in the air. He also does a great job catching the ball in traffic.

[gilchristfan]

Based on the games I watched and from what I have read up on him, he has great hands. Mayock must have watched a tape of a game where he had a drop or two and is basing his oppinnion on that, but I have seen him make some great catches. He catches everything in his hands and will leap up to attack the ball in the air. He also does a great job catching the ball in traffic.

In the video, I think Mayock said he counted at least 15 drops.

If true, that's quite a bit. (Although he did manage to catch 79 or so).

[dwightdrane]

I dunno. the scouts know more than us, but i never remember him as a difference maker in college. if they want him that's fine, but at #11??! They gotta trade down- chances are this kid does nothing for 2-3 years. Which is fine, but we also need contributions right now. Another season or 2 with no playoffs is something we cannot take.

[admarc]

In the video, I think Mayock said he counted at least 15 drops.

If true, that's quite a bit. (Although he did manage to catch 79 or so).

15 is a lot. I went back last night and watched some of the Michigan - Michigan St game and Thomas did have 1 drop in the first half. I fell asleep before watching the rest of the game, so I'll finish up tonight.

The drop came on a crossing pattern where he got a step on the defender and he peeked up field before catching it, so the ball got into his chest and bounced away. To complete my over analyzation of that one play, he was looking to make a big play, which he would have if he held on, but didn't look the ball all the way into his hands.

That sounds like the type of thing Mayock described.

[treydawg]

Robert Meachem pt. 2?

[FinNasty]

Based on the games I watched and from what I have read up on him, he has great hands. Mayock must have watched a tape of a game where he had a drop or two and is basing his oppinnion on that, but I have seen him make some great catches. He catches everything in his hands and will leap up to attack the ball in the air. He also does a great job catching the ball in traffic.

Heres his breakdown of Devin Thomas...
http://www.nfl.com/videos?videoId=09000d5d807339b1

He has him as a fast riser, and likes him as a prospect. Uses his hands well when catching in traffic.

However, he says that he is inconsistant, and when watching film he saw 15-20 drops on tape this year.

Thats a lot of drops...

[admarc]

Heres his breakdown of Devin Thomas...
http://www.nfl.com/videos?videoId=09000d5d807339b1

He has him as a fast riser, and likes him as a prospect. Uses his hands well when catching in traffic.

However, he says that he is inconsistant, and when watching film he saw 15-20 drops on tape this year.

Thats a lot of drops...

I caught his breakdown of Thomas on the NFL Network, but missed where he said 15- 20 drops. He really likes Thomas and thinks he has a chance to be the 1st WR taken.

I like him too, I currently have him as the #3 WR, but I am not sure he rates anywhere near the 11th best player in the draft. Obviously, with the Bills having such a huge need at WR, he would be rated higher on their board than most teams, but I still would only like to see him selected if they can orchestrate a trade down or up from the 2nd round.

There are just too many question marks with each of the top tier receivers this year.

Sweeds' wrist, Kelly's knees, Davis' only 1 year of production and the drops, Hardy's character and questions about his ability to beat press coverage, Maningham's size and slow 40 at the combine (although he answered that one already with a sub 4.4 40 at his pro-day).

Some of these guys will answer the questions and go on to be stars but some may end up as total busts. Pick #11 is too high to take that kind of risk.

The Dolphins are actually in great position to take a player like Thomas at the top of the 2nd round where the potential reward outweighs the risk.

[Buffalo Roam'er]

the only thing i dont like about his athleticism is I wish the vertical was higher...


but as far as toughness goes I'm taking this guys balls over Hardy, Sweed and Kelly. Maybe he can be an Eric Moulds type? Thats what I want

You need to watch film on this guy! Not only can he leap but even better, he gets separation! He's fast, deceptive, angile, smooth, fast and has the soft hands people like describing. He makes effortless sharp cuts and great routes. This kid could be the steal of the draft.

[CodyDog]

With Devin Thomas and Martellus Bennett on the rise (two whom I would like to see in Buffalo) I kind of see us coming away with three Spartans from the draft...Thomas in the first,reaching for Davis at three, and giving the home-town nod to Caulcrick. I think he's an interesting pick-up for a FB. But GOD, I want Bennett!!!

[danamal85]

They gotta trade down- chances are this kid does nothing for 2-3 years. Which is fine, but we also need contributions right now. Another season or 2 with no playoffs is something we cannot take.

Why not? I am all for winning now but, with the youth of our core and inexperience at quarterback. I'd rather not get immediate contributers who make us a solid team but, ultimately one without the super talented players needed to win it all. I agree with the 1st round pick you need a contributor. Unless your drafting high enough to draft a superstar and then you need to do that. Later on after round one there is a balance between swinging for a guy who has greater potential but greater risks and taking a guy who will be average for the selection spot. I think the Bills are in a place where they need some guys that will be difference makers that the opposing coordinators have to game plan against. I see a team full of solid if not spectacular players that can compete, but lacks the difference makers to put them over the top. (Much like the Chicago Bulls right now).

[CodyDog]

But GOD, I want Bennett!!!

In a Bills Uniform!

[FknGvna]

Pound-for-pound, Thomas is one of the strongest receivers in college football. A well-built athlete with massive upper body muscle tone, Thomas not only has the strength to power through arm tackles, but also displays blazing quickness. He succeeded in a variety of roles for the Wolverines since the arrival of new head coach Mark Dantonio, who unearthed the junior's talents in 2007.

After a promising freshman campaign at Coffeyville Community College, Thomas saw minimal opportunities to touch the ball as a sophomore at Michigan State. Once Dantonio arrived on campus, the coach quickly got to work on devising ways to use his receiver.

By the end of his junior campaign, Thomas not only set a school single-season record with 79 receptions and ranked second in the Big Ten Conference with 1,260 yards, but he also paced the league while ranking 11th in the nation with a 29.1-yard kickoff return average. He averaged 6.6 yards on 27 carries, finishing sixth in the NCAA ranks with an average of 199.23 all-purpose yards per game.

http://www.nfl.com/draft/profiles/devin-thomas?id=1036

That's why he didn't have the numbers. The old coach was a nincompoop.

[Mouldsie]

my friend goes to MSU and says he is the real deal and perfect for Trent.

[Whitner20]

i can see the bills taking harvey at 11 and the trading back up into the late first and grabbing thomas. Seems like if the bills really like a player they find ways to aquire them.

[FknGvna]

Thomas's 79 receptions in 2007 broke the previous school record of 68 catches by Charles Rogers in 2002...His 1,260 yards receiving in 2007 rank behind Rogers 1,470 in 2001 and 1,351 in 2002) on MSU's single-season record list...His eight touchdown catches in 2007 tied Plaxico Burress (1998), Andre Rison (1988) and Bob Carey (1949) for fourth on the school single-season record chart, topped by Rogers (14 in 2001 and 13 in 2002) and Burress' 12 in 1999...His 13 receptions vs. Indiana in 2007 tied Burress (vs. Florida in 2000) for second on MSU's game-record chart behind Matt Trannon's 14 grabs vs. Eastern Michigan in 2006...His three touchdown receptions vs. Penn State in 2007 tied the school game record that is held by Burress (vs. Florida in 2000, Northwestern in 1999 and Iowa in 1999), Rison (vs. Georgia in 1989), Mark Ingram (vs. lowa in 1986) and Gene Washington (vs. Indiana in 1965)...


sounds Plaxico Burris-like to me...;'he only did it in one season...'

[imontoya]

Jauron spoke about Devin Thomas and receivers in the draft in general at the owner's meetings. From http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/profile.php?pyid=67905#news

04/01/08 - Assess WR Class in the draft? "I think it’s pretty deep. I don’t know how many great players there are, you never know that. I think it has depth to it. I think you’re going to get a good receiver down the line, a little deeper than what I would consider normal. We do kind of buy into the values. We rank the board and then live by it. All things being equal though if we have the need then you go with the need. Assess Malcolm Kelly? He’s a big physical receiver. He’s got good speed down the field. He’s powerful. He has good balance. (Re Kelly and Devin Thomas) Both of them are similar. Good run after catch, good size, good speed, good speed down the field, powerful guys, quick and explosive with good balance. Devin has only done it one year? He had a huge year. Obviously if a guy has done it more times, kind of like a quarterback, you hear all the quarterback gurus talking about college quarterbacks and they want a guy who’s thrown it a lot. I don’t know if it’s the same thing at receiver. I really believe you just keep looking at it and you get a feel for a guy. Is there a downside about the Juco factor (for Thomas) Not for me. I just look at as many plays at the guy as I can so I feel confident. - NFL Owners Meeting Transcripts, Dick Jauron

[Buffalo1]

he definately has the skill set that we are looking for, perfect for a #2 WR in Buffalo but was last year a fluke or is he really the real deal. I think he is the real deal and am liking him more each day.

[BTKMTG]

I would like to move down 5 or 6 spots if Harvey is not available and take a WR Kelly or Thomas- If we can get another pick to help us move back up in 2 or into round 1 that would be ideal and get Fred Davis at TE- go CB in round 3 if Tyvone Branch is avail- THOMAS reminds me of Andre Reed -

[FknGvna]

KUDOS to Mayock for finding this guy.

[bcw]

Looking at the DJ quote from IMONTOYA it doesn't sound like DJ is thinking WR with the #11 pick.

"04/01/08 - Assess WR Class in the draft? "I think it’s pretty deep. I don’t know how many great players there are, you never know that. I think it has depth to it. I think you’re going to get a good receiver down the line, a little deeper than what I would consider normal. We do kind of buy into the values. We rank the board and then live by it. All things being equal though if we have the need then you go with the need."

When he says that he doesn't know how many great wr's there are and talks about the depth it leads me to believe he's leaning in another direction in round 1.

[superman]

Looking at the DJ quote from IMONTOYA it doesn't sound like DJ is thinking WR with the #11 pick.

"04/01/08 - Assess WR Class in the draft? "I think it’s pretty deep. I don’t know how many great players there are, you never know that. I think it has depth to it. I think you’re going to get a good receiver down the line, a little deeper than what I would consider normal. We do kind of buy into the values. We rank the board and then live by it. All things being equal though if we have the need then you go with the need."

When he says that he doesn't know how many great wr's there are and talks about the depth it leads me to believe he's leaning in another direction in round 1.

we can only hope

[FknGvna]

smokescreen.

[hello]

I want to try and trade down but whether we can or not, I still thinkt he Bills will take Thomas with their first pick.

[amt3777]

Peter King mentions this in his weekly MMQB column. Has anyone else heard this? Is it a concern? Why would King mention it if it wasn't a concern?

I'll admit, it's got me second guessing this pick.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/writers/peter_king/04/20/mmqb/1.html

[Jry44]

Peter King mentions this in his weekly MMQB column. Has anyone else heard this? Is it a concern? Why would King mention it if it wasn't a concern?

I'll admit, it's got me second guessing this pick.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/writers/peter_king/04/20/mmqb/1.html

I really don't see how it could be a concern. the numbers, and tape do not lie. it obviously hasn't hurt his speed, or his burst, or his verticle. I realy don't think it's a big deal

[Blofan4life]

That would be affect his back the most but he has been injured much in the past so I wouldn't be too concerned.

[FknGvna]

BLO, huh?

[comericatigers]

Bills may reach out to MSU receiver
By Mark Gaughan -- News Sports Reporter
Updated: 04/22/08 9:24 AM

The start of the 2008 NFL draft could resemble the 2006 NFL draft for the Buffalo Bills.

Two years ago, the Bills picked safety Donte Whitner a tad higher than many draftniks had him rated— at eighth overall. This year the Bills may make a similar move in selecting Devin Thomas, the wide receiver from Michigan State. Thomas is rated by many as the best receiver in the draft but most experts don’t put him among the top 12 players overall.

Like all NFL teams, the Bills are being secretive about their plans for the draft. But team sources indicate Thomas is highly regarded at One Bills Drive.

The Bills need to do something to bolster a passing game that ranked 30th in the NFL last season and has ranked among the bottom six in the NFL five straight years.

Thomas has the size and speed the Bills’ offense desperately needs. He is 6-foot-2, 215 pounds, and he ran the 40-yard dash in 4.40 seconds, just a shade behind the time Bills receiver Lee Evans ran coming out of college.

Thomas left Michigan State after a junior year in which he caught a school-record 79 passes for 1,260 yards and eight touchdowns.

“He’s an excellent vertical [receiver] and an excellent runner after the catch,” Bills Vice President of College Scouting Tom Modrak said at last week’s pre-draft news conference.

Thomas’ size makes him difficult to bring down after he makes a catch. He also has the size to help the Bills in the red zone, where bigger receivers have an edge. Buffalo has ranked in the bottom seven in terms of scoring touchdowns when it gets inside the opponent’s 20 four straight years.

The one question about Thomas’ resume: Is he is a “one-year wonder?” After spending two seasons, one as a redshirt, at Coffeyville Community College in Kansas, he had just six catches in his first season at Michigan State.

On the other hand, if Thomas had stayed in college and put up a similar season as a senior, he may have wound up as a top five pick next year.

ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper ranks Thomas as the No. 1 receiver available and the 20th best player in the draft. Scout.com lists him 16th. The Sporting News lists him ninth, and NFLDraftScout.com 14th.

Of course, several other factors will have a big influence on the Bills’ decision with the 11th pick. One is the way the top 10 picks play out.

A cornerback has been taken in the top 10 picks in six of the last 10 years. The top corner this year is Troy’s Leodis McKelvin, and there is a decent chance he will be a top 10 pick. If he is not, the Bills could be in the position of choosing between the best receiver and the best cornerback — their two biggest areas of need.

The other wild card is a trade. It’s possible that some suitors could be looking to move up to the 11th pick.

http://www.buffalonews.com/sports/story/329021.html


_____________________________________
Personally, I think this WR problem should have been addressed through Free Agency. This ought to be interesting...

:bills:

[FknGvna]

“He’s an excellent vertical [receiver] and an excellent runner after the catch,” Bills Vice President of College Scouting Tom Modrak said at last week’s pre-draft news conference.

This word sells.

[Downinfloflo]

Noooooooooo............

[BillsfaninVirginia]

in a trade down yes at 11 NO!

[matthew94]

It'd be great if we could trade down to 19, pick up Lito Shepherd, and still get Thomas. Then draft a TE in round 2 or 3.

[CBennett]

you know what, i really dont even care anymore. Unfortunately there is not a GREAT WR in this draft...and probably none worthy of the top 10-15 picks BUT that said when your needs are WR and CB guess you gotta decide which you think you can wait on and get in the 2nd round. and I dont know the answer to that question.

[JimKelly12203]

If they're convinced that he will improve our passing game, i'm ok with taking him at 11. I think the Bills board has probably put a lot of emphasis on that position as we simply can't enter 2009 with the WR corps we currently have and expect to win.

It's a gamble, but potentially a good one. As the article said, if Thomas had more than one season of production like that, he'd be an instant top five no-brainer of a pick. I guess it's up to OBD to run all the scenarios in their head and make an honest assessment of what his numbers would be like this year if he chose to stay in College.

If the answer is; the same level of production ± 10%, why not take him?

[JimKelly12203]

Regardless, i'm pretty much certain that D. Thomas is a lot higher on OBDs big board than he is on Mel Keipher's.

[JP Losmania7]

right now its pointless to keep saying how these players arent worth the 11th pick. the bills basically know what they are doing. and i trust there decisions. if they want a WR at 11 take him and move one. i think the Bills know what player is best for them, not mel kiper or mcshay

[admarc]

Welcome to draft week, home of mis-information.

[Merk]

I posted this in Admarcs Mock but it belongs here too

Any other thoughts on Thomas from the general masses?

I think at this point I'm kinda of having a hard time seeing how the pick isn't going to be Thomas if McKelvin is off the board. The only other scenario that I'm playing around w/ is if they have Thomas and say a Sweed or a Hardy in tie w/ him on there rankings and they basically take any deal they can get knowing that one of the WR's will be there when they move down

That said Thomas is an interesting prospect and prob one of the harder evals in this draft

The things I like about him
-Very explosive
-Fast
-Not just A to B fast like a Kennison or a Ginn Jr he's got good agility and quickness and can make people miss
-Gives you value at both WR and KR
-Good open field runner
-Explosive first step
-Produced throughout the year even though it became apparent that he was there offense. Teams adjusted and he still put up numbers
-Good vision
-Not afraid of any part of the field
-Has the ability to score anywhere on the field

The things I dont like
-Still a raw route runner
-Hands can be questionable
-There is no way I could know this w/out talking to him but there are questions about his mental game. This could be a problem when he has to identify coverages from the WR spot which for an NFL WR is mandatory
-One year wonder. This is the biggest concern w/ me because usually I'm pretty skeptical of one year guys. If he had gone back and put up similar numbers its not a question of if he would go in the top 10 but where would he go. Teams adjusted to him in season but give them a whole offseason and I would have like to see how Thomas would have reacted in Produced

[admarc]

I think at this point I'm kinda of having a hard time seeing how the pick isn't going to be Thomas if McKelvin is off the board. The only other scenario that I'm playing around w/ is if they have Thomas and say a Sweed or a Hardy in tie w/ him on there rankings and they basically take any deal they can get knowing that one of the WR's will be there when they move down

That said Thomas is an interesting prospect and prob one of the harder evals in this draft

The things I like about him
-Very explosive
-Fast
-Not just A to B fast like a Kennison or a Ginn Jr he's got good agility and quickness and can make people miss
-Gives you value at both WR and KR
-Good open field runner
-Explosive first step
-Produced throughout the year even though it became apparent that he was there offense. Teams adjusted and he still put up numbers
-Good vision
-Not afraid of any part of the field
-Has the ability to score anywhere on the field

The things I dont like
-Still a raw route runner
-Hands can be questionable
-There is no way I could know this w/out talking to him but there are questions about his mental game. This could be a problem when he has to identify coverages from the WR spot which for an NFL WR is mandatory
-One year wonder. This is the biggest concern w/ me because usually I'm pretty skeptical of one year guys. If he had gone back and put up similar numbers its not a question of if he would go in the top 10 but where would he go. Teams adjusted to him in season but give them a whole offseason and I would have like to see how Thomas would have reacted in Produced


I agree 100% with your assesment. The only other prospect the Bills might be considering if things play out as expected is Limas Sweed, who I prefer slightly over Thomas. I think Sweed has a bit more potential but I consider both relatively safe picks. Thomas should be able to step in day one, but as Merk said he will have a learning curve on route running and reading NFL defenses. Physically though, you couldn't ask for much more in a receiver. He has #1 receiver talent and could really open up the Bills playbook.

I would be excited to see what Schonert could come up with to maximize the big play abilities of both Thomas and Evans.

[admarc]

Here's my article I wrote making the case for Thomas or Sweed at #1. Thought I'd post it here too.

Fitting the Bills: Making the Case for the Obvious on Draft Day
<HR style="COLOR: #000000" SIZE=1><!-- / icon and title --><!-- message --><?XML:NAMESPACE PREFIX = O /><O:P></O:P>http://www.statenews.com/media/00/00/02/60/26004_SAR_FBC_uwthomas_092907_big.jpg
With so much anticipation by fans leading up to draft day, the hardcore draft nicks may have a tendency to over think things. Especially when months are spent studying their favorite team’s needs and draft strategy. This may be the case for the Buffalo Bills fans leading up to the 2008 draft. The most obvious and glaring need for the Bills is to find a bigger receiver to pair opposite with Lee Evans. A big, fast receiver will give them a short yardage option over the middle and give them the bigger target they desperately lack in their red zone offense. However, the popular opinion is that no receiver in this draft is talented enough to justify being selected at #11 overall. The trendy pick is Derrick Harvey (http://www.buffalorange.com/showthread.php?t=114513&highlight=Harvey) or one of the top 3 corners, Leodis McKelvin (http://www.buffalorange.com/showthread.php?t=129490), Dominick Rodgers Cromartie (http://www.buffalorange.com/showthread.php?t=116659)or Michael Jenkins (http://www.buffalorange.com/showthread.php?t=116655). However, if the Bills pass on receiver in the 1<SUP>st</SUP> round, they may find themselves forcing picks later in the draft and missing out on even greater value.

I think everyone agrees the best approach would be to trade down a few spots, pick up an extra 3<SUP>rd</SUP> round pick and grab the top receiver left on the board. I do believe that would be the best approach but should the Bills fail to find a suitable trading partner, they shouldn’t pass on the opportunity to grab their top receiver at 11. The choice seems to be between Devin Thomas (http://www.buffalorange.com/showthread.php?t=128734), a 6’-2” 218 Junior out of Michigan State and Limas Sweed, (http://www.buffalorange.com/showthread.php?t=114508&highlight=Sweed) a 6’-4” Senior from Texas. They both possess the sub 4.5 speed the Bills covet and the over 6’-2” height and size the Bills covet. They also both come with at least one question mark. Thomas had only 6 receptions before this year and Sweed missed most of his senior season after requiring surgery on his wrist. However, they both possess enough talent and potential to justify being selected early. Thomas has a rare combination of size and speed and showed he has the ability to translate that into production by putting together an impressive junior season with 75 receptions for 1,226 yards and 8 TDs. Thomas’ greatest asset is his run after catch ability and his fearlessness over the middle of the field. He uses his size well and will lower his shoulder and deliver a shot to the defender or smoothly change direction to run past them. He has a knack for finding the end zone and would be a good fit in a west coast style offense. While it is too early to know exactly what new Bills offensive coordinator Turk Schonert has in mind for the Bills passing game, his history indicates he may bring some elements of the west coast offense, which will also suit Quarter Back Trent Edwards. Evans on the outside going deep and Thomas on crossing patterns over the middle has the potential to be an effective pairing.

Sweed also possess a rare combination of size and speed. His greatest strength is his ability to catch the ball in a crowd and would instantly upgrade the Bills red zone offense, which clearly needs to be improved. At 6’-4” with great athleticism he doesn’t lose many jump ball battles. He also has the speed to stretch the field and make the big play. His high character would make him a good fit in the locker room and will help down the road if despite being a number 1 pick, he’ll be asked to continue to fill the #2 receiver role behind Evans.

It can, and certainly has been argued ad nausea in various Bills fan message boards, like the Buffalo Range War Room, that there may be greater value in the first round at defensive end or corner available to the Bills than receiver. However, between the Bills 1<SUP>st</SUP> and 2<SUP>nd</SUP> round picks, as many as 7 receivers may be taken. Wide Receiver is a position that almost every team will look to add at some point in the draft, and while the perception is that there is no one receiver worth the 11<SUP>th</SUP> pick in the draft, there are many that justify selection in the second half of the 1<SUP>st</SUP> round and top 1/3d of the 2<SUP>nd</SUP> round. Due to the high demand for receivers, it is likely the Bills will miss out on a top 5 receiver if they wait until their 2<SUP>nd</SUP> pick. Then they would have to consider reaching in the 2<SUP>nd</SUP> round when there is likely to be greater value at corner and TE, two other pressing needs. If they wait until the third, they may get completely shut out of a receiver capable of stepping in as the number 2 his first year and will certainly come with some major question marks.

The other option would be to trade back up into the latter part of the 1<SUP>st</SUP> round or top of the 2<SUP>nd</SUP>, but again this is easier said than done and will cost them a valuable pick.

It may be wise for the Bills to reach a bit in the 1<SUP>st </SUP>for Thomas or Sweed and then fill their roster with the best talent available the rest of the way. There promises to be good value at TE with Martellus Bennet (http://www.buffalorange.com/showthread.php?t=117970), Dustin Keller (http://www.buffalorange.com/showthread.php?t=117963)and Fred Davis (http://www.buffalorange.com/showthread.php?t=117953)likely to go in the 2<SUP>nd</SUP> round and John Carlson (http://www.buffalorange.com/showthread.php?t=117769)and Brad Cottam (http://www.buffalorange.com/showthread.php?t=117968) in the 3<SUP>rd</SUP>. Corners like Brandon Flowers (http://www.buffalorange.com/showthread.php?t=116795)and Antoine Cason (http://www.buffalorange.com/showthread.php?t=95256)may be available in the 2<SUP>nd</SUP> and Terrell Thomas (http://www.buffalorange.com/showthread.php?t=116625)and Tyvon Branch (http://www.buffalorange.com/showthread.php?t=134726)in the 3<SUP>rd</SUP>. There may also be value at DE in the 2<SUP>nd</SUP> and 3<SUP>rd</SUP> rounds with Darrel Robertson (http://www.buffalorange.com/showthread.php?t=127999), Calais Campbell (http://www.buffalorange.com/showthread.php?t=114504), Chris Ellis (http://www.buffalorange.com/showthread.php?t=115291)and Cliff Avril (http://www.buffalorange.com/showthread.php?t=131467)all projected in the 2<SUP>nd</SUP> – 3<SUP>rd</SUP> rounds.

Usually, the best strategy is to go best player available at a position of need, not necessarily forcing the greatest need with the highest pick and going down the list of needs each round in descending order. However, this year when looking at potential value, the Bills would be wise to fill their greatest need with their first pick. While there is always the possibility of finding a late round gem, with so many questions surrounding the receivers in this year’s draft and with so many teams looking to add receivers to their roster, the Bills will be wise not to over think things and simply take their top choice for their biggest need. While Limas Sweed may be the best value, the Bills seem to view Devin Thomas as the best fit and he is becoming the experts consensus choice as the top receiver in the draft. He would add a dynamic dimension to the team and will draw some attention away from Lee Evans. If the Bills go with Thomas they could address TE and Corner with their next two picks and FB, Center and a pass rushing specialist DE on day two. Sometimes the obvious choice is the best.

<!-- / message --><!-- edit note -->

[f8ta1ity54]

i doubt it would be a problem..they probably fit him with a different shoe. but who knows if its true either.

[Blofan4life]

BLO, huh?
When we have two different sized legs in hurts your lower back the most. I know someone who has that problem and they have to go to the chiropractor about every month to get realigned because if they don't they won't be able to walk it hurts to much. If we do draft him it would be something to look at if he is ever on the injury report for his lower back.

[Bosco]

One leg shorter than the other helps when running the "in pattern" when the team is going from right to left on the field.

One leg shorter than the other helps running the "out pattern" when the team is going from left to right on the field.

[1968_bills_fan]

The fields alway have a crown in the center to drain off water. If his left leg is shorter have him run "go" patterns from the right WR set, and "out" patterns from the left set. Have him change shoes to ones with differnt height soles at halftime and fake out the defense. Next Question?

[jaymitch84]

Coming up here in a few minutes Devin Thomas is going to be a guest on Rome is Burning on ESPN.

If you have been looking for a chance to see the kid a lot of people are projecting to come to Buffalo talk, here's your chance.

[JP Losmania7]

that was a good interview

[jaymitch84]

I agree. Looks like a good guy.

[superman]

Anyone care to summarize it?

[superman]

Im warming up to the Thomas idea after someone saying that if he'd come back for his senior yr, he'd be a top 5 pick next year. Certainly has talent. People keep comparing him to Moulds but it took Moulds 2 yrs to break out. Hopefully he can be more like Lee.

[jaymitch84]

Anyone care to summarize it?

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[Buffalo Roam'er]

As we learned last year, you can second guess the Bills front office till the cow's come home and wonder what the hell they were thinking after they make the pic. They know more and are closer to the situation they deem most important. I never expected the Bills to take Donte Whitner with the #8 pick in the draft either. Time's almost up and the card will be delivered soon. Good luck which ever way it goes. I do believe it will be a WR 1st.

You know, regardless of what we thought as the draft began last year, I think it was one of the better drafts in a long time!