Scouting the 2020 NFL draft: Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia

Georgia offensive tackle Andrew Thomas is widely regarded as one of the five best prospects entering the 2019 college football season. Assuming he takes a step forward in his development, he should end up one of the highest-graded players in the 2020 NFL draft.

The 2020 NFL draft will have several intriguing offensive tackle prospects in its ranks, but it’s Georgia’s Andrew Thomas who profiles as a potential early first-round pick and the headliner of the class.

Thomas is entering his junior season with the Bulldogs and has become a fixture in the starting lineup since his freshman year. He started all 15 games at right tackle that season before moving to left tackle in 2018. He started all 13 games last year.

Thomas ended last season as a Second-Team All-American (Associated Press) and First-Team All-SEC (coaches) selection. No offensive lineman has as much buzz as he does in 2019.

Physically, Thomas looks the part of a starting offensive tackle in the NFL. Listed at an unofficial 6-5 and 320 pounds, his frame is well-built (he isn’t fat) with a thick trunk and long arms.

Athletically, Thomas has the requisite footwork to be an effective pass blocker on the edge. He mirrors well and is quick and timely in his slide. He can get beat by speed on occasion, but it’s not because he isn’t quick enough to handle it.

Thomas is a reliable pass protector who has a strong enough base to handle power players and quick enough feet to handle speed on the edge. He’ll need more work with his punch, however, as he often uncoils too high and doesn’t get a great fit on the defender’s chest. This is something that will improve over time, however. His hands are naturally heavy and he creates a good jolt when his technique is sound.