Sooners Commit Elijah Thomas Just Getting Started

Oklahoma’s class of 2025 grew on Thursday with the commitment of Checotah, Okla. wide receiver Elijah Thomas. The nation’s No. 143 overall player, according to the On3 Industry rankings, was an early offer for the Sooners and upon Emmett Jones‘s arrival in Norman he wasted no time focusing on the Eastern Oklahoma star. Thomas chose the Sooners over Alabama, Arkansas, Kansas State, Texas A&M, and Texas Tech.

What’s on Tape for Elijah Thomas

It’s easy to focus on the competition Thomas faces and try to downplay his tape. But, the more you watch, it’s hard to argue against his potential. After you’ve seen him in person, it’s wholly impossible but for now we’ll focus on the tape.

Watching Thomas on tape there’s a simple explanation – he’s got to be smaller than he’s listed, right? Nope. Thomas is unusual in his lateral quickness and quick feet for a player at his listed 6-foot and 170-pounds. The Sooners commitment has plenty of frame but can play like a slot receiver with his ability after the catch.

That being said, he’s a player who can be very diverse with his long arms and explosive leaping ability. He’ll make catches from numerous angles and shows a good feel for working the middle of the field.

And while Oklahoma’s new pledge gets knocked for his competition it’s also worth noting he still has so much room to grow. Thomas quickness is good now but as he continues to work on refining his movement he can become even more dangerous.

Perhaps his most elite trait at this point is simply his acceleration. For such a long strider the Sooners commitment gets to top speed with such ease. Time and time again you can see that speed being too much for defenders, many of whom have already seen him run past them once.

Thomas has a solid frame with an impressive wingspan and as that frame naturally fills out there are few roles he can’t fill as a receiver. In short, he’s a player who is highly thought of and has a chance to climb the rankings in time.

Sooners Commit Comparison

The latest Sooners pledge reminds me of former five-star Trejan Bridges. It’s a comparison made in the way he places in space as well as his diverse skillset.

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