KCSN Draft Guide Preview: EDGE Cameron Thomas
The 2022 edition of the KCSN Draft Guide released yesterday. We are so excited to finally share our hard work with you — so much so that we’re sharing another write-up.
Thanks to our Partners In Possible, Emprise Bank, for helping this become a reality!
Here’s a pass rush prospect the Chiefs could pursue as early as day two of the NFL Draft — a pass rusher worth keeping an eye on.
EDGE Cameron Thomas — San Diego State
6’4” — 270
Carlsbad, CA — 1/7/2000
Grade (round): 4th
2021 Stats: 71 TKL, 20.5 TFL, 10.5 Sacks, 1 FF
Background:
Participated in the 2022 Reese’s Senior Bowl. Former three star recruit that chose San Diego State over Navy and Oregon State. Appeared in 33 games for the Aztecs in his three years with the school. All-Mountain West First Team (2019, 2020, 2021), SDSU Defensive Lineman of the Year (2019, 2020, 2021). Older brother, Zachary, was the starting right tackle at San Diego State.
Strengths:
Thomas is a twitchy, big-bodied pass rusher in this draft class. He is quick off the ball and flashes excellent explosion with his first step. As a pass rusher, he is extremely developed in how he attacks. He has quick hands that allow him to work around interior offensive linemen along with offensive tackles. His two-hand swipes are some of the best in the class and he is an effortless mover once he hits.
Thomas has the versatility to play down as a three-technique or all the way out as a five or seven technique. Thomas’ motor is always running hot and it is one of the main reasons why he accumulated so many sacks this past year.
Weaknesses:
Thomas is a tough player to project to the next level. He isn’t overly strong, despite his size, and rarely wins with power in his rushes. He almost always has to rely on his athleticism to successfully get to the quarterback.
His arm length is a concern as well– he came way under the typical threshold for pass rushers at the Combine. He has a lot of issues in the run game, as he is more often than not driven out of his gaps with ease. He needs to continue to add strength to his frame if he hopes to have any type of role in a NFL defense.
How he fits with the Chiefs:
Thomas is a prospect worth taking a shot on in this class. He is athletic and has a natural ability to rush the passer. His arm length and current ability in run defense may make him a tougher fit for the Chiefs’ defense, but he is a player that would be worth developing down the road.
Player comp: Sam Hubbard
Team Fit: Medium