Michael Thomas came a long way from spring game star to future NFL draft pick.
Thomas made splashes as a young player in the 2012 and 2013 spring games, but fell back in the shadows in those respective seasons due to immaturity and other issues. It cost him a redshirt season in 2013, but Thomas grew into the program's No. 1 wide receiver the past two seasons.
Thomas honed his game and made excellent use of the limited opportunities Ohio State's offense presented him. Of his 110 catches the past two seasons, 18 went for touchdowns. His measurables are ridiculous — Thomas checked in at 6-foot-3 and a lean 212 pounds at the NFL Combine, with 32 and 1/8-inch arms and 10 and 1/2-inch hands.
Those outstanding figures and pair of vise grips for hands allow for him to have an extensive catch radius, which he showed often in Columbus.
Even though he needed some additional time to grow up and didn't have as many chances to make plays as some of the other receivers in the 2016 NFL Draft, Thomas served as a viable security blanket for both Cardale Jones and J.T. Barrett. He only had five drops in the last two years.
Where could Thomas end up after this weekend's draft? Here are five franchises that could use the services of the projected second-round pick and nephew of Keyshawn Johnson.
Cincinnati Bengals
Where They're Picking: First Round (24th overall), Second Round (55th overall)
Breakdown: As we've written before, the Bengals are without two wide receivers from last year's team in Mohamed Sanu and Marvin Jones, who both left in free agency. They will certainly be in the market for a wideout to put opposite of A.J. Green as well as an explosive player in the slot, so they could take a look at both Thomas and Braxton Miller. Green can stretch the field vertically for the Bengals, but Thomas wasn't asked to do that much in Columbus. He is an excellent option to move the chains on the outside and has a terrific frame to shield defenders on slant patterns. The Bengals would be wise to explore selecting him.
Cleveland Browns
Where They're Picking: First Round (eighth overall), Second Round (32nd overall)
Breakdown: The Browns need help — everywhere. However, the team's offense the last few years has been hamstrung by the lack of a big, playmaking outside receiver. It doesn't help that 2013 receiving champion Josh Gordon can't keep his nose clean, but Thomas at No. 32 almost makes too much sense. If Corey Coleman, Laquon Treadwell and Josh Doctson are off the board by then as expected, Thomas is next in line among the receiver crop in this year's draft class according to most analysts. Even if those guys do fall to the second round, keeping Thomas in Ohio wouldn't necessarily be a bad move. He would provide a reliable outside threat above 6-foot not-named Brian Hartline and Gary Barnidge for Robert Griffin III (or whoever plays quarterback).
Tennessee Titans
Where They're Picking: First Round (15th overall), Second Round (33rd overall, 43rd overall, 45th overall)
Breakdown: Marcus Mariota needs more weapons on offense, that much is obvious. He also needs better protection up front, so the Titans will likely address their offensive line in the first round after trading away the first overall pick to Los Angeles. The franchise is likely to take a wide receiver with one of the three selections in the early portions of the second round. Thomas would provide security for Mariota.
Kansas City Chiefs
Where They're Picking: First Round (28th overall), Second Round (59th overall)
Breakdown: Kansas City needs a wide receiver to roam the opposite side of the field of Jeremy Maclin. Thomas might not be available at No. 59, but would appear to fit in Andy Reid's offense and help the team's lackluster receiving corps. If Thomas keeps on the trajectory he was on as he ended his college career, he seems destined to be a reliable No. 2 option early in his career for whoever drafts him. The Chiefs are desperate for someone to step into that role.
Philadelphia Eagles
Where They're Picking: First Round (second overall), Third Round (79th overall)
Breakdown: The Eagles are on this list because after Jordan Matthews, their receiver options are pretty weak. It doesn't look like Philly will get a chance to draft Thomas unless he falls into the third round, which is unlikely. That's what happens when you sell the farm to trade up and take Carson Wentz or Jared Goff. However, wilder things have happened and the Eagles need an impact wide receiver with potential. Thomas is that and more.
Honorable Mention: Minnesota Vikings, New Orleans Saints, Los Angeles Rams
