2016 NFL Draft: 6 Buckeyes Who Could Leave College Early
By Joe Russo
Sep 26, 2015; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes wide receiver Michael Thomas (3) dives for the first down during the third quarter against the Western Michigan Broncos at Ohio Stadium. Ohio State won the game 38-12. Mandatory Credit: Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports
Michael Thomas, JR, WR
Michael Thomas‘ stats don’t exactly jump out at you the way they do for Laquon Treadwell. But Thomas’s highlight reel is every bit as good as the Ole’ Miss standout. He’s on and off been the highest rated receiver on a few boards and has NFL size at 6-foot-3, 210 pounds. In fact, his closest NFL comparison might be his uncle, Keyshawn Johnson. Both are big bodied receivers that attack the ball in the air and are such precise route runners that they are more quick than fast. His ball skills and body control alone make him a potential first-round pick, along with Elliott.
Why He Goes: He might be a top five pick with teams such as Baltimore and Cleveland likely to pick at the top of the draft and desperate for a playmaking receiver. As mentioned earlier, his statistics at Ohio State won’t make your jaw drop, but he has plenty of tape to show scouts why he should be playing on Sundays.
Why He Stays: It’s hard to imagine any scenario where he stays, but it might mirror Elliott’s desire to leave on top. Without a heir apparent on the roster, Thomas could demand more attention in an offense that could lose Elliott and need to shift gears. Still, it’s a long shot.
The Decision: He goes pro and is the first receiver taken in the draft.
Next: Joey Bosa