Scout’s Corner: Logan Thomas, QB, Virginia Tech Scouting Report
By Josh Sanchez
New to NFLSpinZone.com is the latest feature, “Scout’s Corner.”
Every week on Tuesday and Thursday, we will focus on one of the draft eligible prospects for the 2013 NFL Draft. At season’s end, we will have compiled a healthy stockpile of scouting reports for you all to use as you gear up for the draft. Scout’s Corner will feature in-depth scouting report that will be updated with regularity. You will be able to find all of the scouting reports in one spot by just CLICKING HERE.
If you would like to request a scouting report, simply send a reply to me on Twitter at @jnsanchez.
Up first is Virginia Tech quarterback Logan Thomas. Thomas is considered by many to have the potential to become the first-overall player taken in the 2013 NFL Draft. What makes Thomas such a special talent? Read on to find out.
NOTE: All measurables taken from Thomas’ athletic bio.
Height: 6-foot-6
Weight: 262-pounds
Strengths: Thomas’ size, speed and arm strength immediately jump out at you when watching the Hokies play. All of those physical attributes are sure to catch the eyes of NFL executives and scouts. Thomas’ upside is through the roof.
Out of the 2013 NFL Draft prospects at quarterback, Thomas may have the best arm.
On top of his physical attributes, Thomas also excels with his mechanics. His footwork in and out of the pocket is excellent and he uses his football IQ to make good decisions with the ball.
Weaknesses: Thomas will need to prove that last season was not just a flash in the pan. He is only a junior, so he needs more experience. Playing time and reps in college is perhaps one of the most underrated aspects of a quarterback prospects game.
While Thomas’ mobility is a positive, he struggles to throw the ball on the run. Inside of the pocket, Thomas can throw the ball all over the field, but his accuracy suffers a significant drop-off when he moves outside of the pocket.
Thomas will also have to work on reading through his progressions, but that will come with more experience.
Overview: Thomas will be compared a lot to Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton, due to his size, mobility and arm strength. The comparison certainly makes sense in terms of the two players skillsets, but it has yet to be seen if Thomas will be able to keep playing at the top level all season long.
The Thomas – Newton comparisons won’t be going anywhere anytime soon, so get used to hearing about them.
Thomas will benefit from the experience of having yet another full season under his belt and that will give him an opportunity to fine tune his skills. If Thomas continues his meteoric rise this season and declares for the draft, you should expect to hear his name talked about at the top of round one — and very possibly with the first pick.
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