Darron

Thomas

Thomas didn’t even get a free-agent deal after the draft, and nor did former LSU QB Jordan Jefferson. Thomas will have to make an impression to receive an offer. The Steelers like mobile backups, so he may make some sense there.

Thomas completed 211-of-339 passes (62.2 percent) for 2,761 yards and a 33:7 TD-to-INT ratio in 2011, but his numbers were artificially inflated in Oregon’s offense. Considered a shaky passer on par with Tim Tebow, Thomas surprised draftniks with his decision. He could be asked to change positions in the NFL, and it’s not even certain that he will be drafted.

Thomas’ decision to declare is being strongly questioned in draft circles, but the Oregon trigger man appears to realize there’s a chance he’ll go undrafted. “Hopefully I do get drafted and I can go in there and keep working hard,” he said. It’s possible Thomas’ NFL future is not at quarterback.

Thomas was Kelly’s starting quarterback in 2010 and 2011. Slightly built with mediocre arm strength, Thomas’ decision to declare for the 2012 draft early was widely panned and he went undrafted, landing in the CFL with the Calgary Stampeders. “Yeah, I think he can play in this league,” Kelly said of Thomas. Thomas could get a camp invite to try to make the Eagles this summer.