Drake Thomas reveals why he opted to enter 2023 NFL Draft
It’s pretty simple why NC State Wolfpack linebacker Drake Thomas wanted to take his game to the next level.
According to Thomas, there simply wasn’t anything left for him to accomplish at the collegiate level, as he explained to the media as he prepares for the 2023 NFL Draft.
“I didn’t think there was really anything else left for me to prove in college football,” started Thomas. “Back-to-back All-ACC, and I put together two back-to-back, very productive seasons. Ended up at the end of last season, I really just kind of sat down, and I prayed on it.
“I felt like, you know, where I am right now is exactly where God wants me to be. I know that. I have full faith in him to guide me along this process.”
Still, some question whether Thomas fits the bill as an NFL linebacker due to his size, to which he would say it’s never stopped him from excelling before.
“It’s never stopped me from making plays before,” answered Thomas. “I just continue to rise, every single level. You know, people tell me I can’t, trying to put limits or barriers on what I can do based on how tall I am, but I continue to make plays and prove people wrong, I feel like every single year.
“I did that in college. I got better every single year. Put together better years, my freshman year, my sophomore year, just kept on stacking on top of that, getting better. Senior year, like you said.”
Moreover, Thomas is carrying a chip on his shoulder throughout the NFL Draft process, as he didn’t get an invite to the NFL Combine. That doesn’t mean he won’t get drafted or won’t get his shot, but he recognizes he’ll have to work harder to get some eyeballs.
“I’d say a chip on the shoulder,” Thomas said, explaining his reaction. “But, at the end of the day, when [I] initially didn’t get the invite it stung a little bit.”
Additionally, Thomas was a team captain at NC State and made 101 total tackles during his senior season. That includes 7.5 sacks. However, he is considered undersized for the next level even if he was an excellent college player.
“But, like I was saying, I just had to rethink about why I am where I am. What helped me get there? And it just goes back to my faith and just believing in God and His plan for me, having me exactly where I need to be.”
During his Pro Day, Thomas ran a 4.67 40-yard dash. He also had a 36.5-inch vertical jump. For comparison, Owen Pappoe of Auburn had the combine’s best 40 time among linebackers at 4.39 seconds. Anfernee Orji of Vanderbilt led the way there, at 38.5 inches.
Perhaps Drake Thomas’ chip will propel him to an NFL career. We’re not willing to count against him.
On3’s Dan Morrison contributed to this article.