I say appears, only because it is only comfirmed by KDKA at this point. Generally I like it better when there is a second report to back it up. Especially several hours after the initial story came out.
…4-star wide receiver Todd Thomas. Pittsburgh Sports Insider has been told that within the last hour, Thomas officially announced that he wants to become a Panther. Thomas selected Pitt over Penn State, Michigan and West Virginia. Thomas is rated the #23 receiver in the country by Rivals.com and the 7th best prospect in the state according to Pantherlair.com.
He is indeed a 4-star recruit in both services, yet neither has listed him as giving a verbal for Pitt at this point.
The ESPN.com/Scouts Inc. evaluation (Insider subs) also notes that he could be developed to play safety.
Our main concern when projecting as a receiver is that he builds speed and lacks great separation burst as a route runner and after the catch. Would be more of big-catch possession receiver. Still needs to polish/sharpen up his route running and sink his hips more out of his breaks. Potential to develop as a college safety with his impressive ball skills and range. Has the ability to cover a lot of ground as a both a run and pass supporter. Overall, Thomas has a boat load of natural tools for a program to polish up at the next level and mold into a good college positional prospect. Outside linebacker is not out of the question with his great frame showing the true versatility this kid can bring to a roster. Could help in the return game as well.
Well, hopefully the coaches figure out where they want him and stick with it. He has a lot of potential and ability, but he doesn’t seem to have a true position yet — other than WR. Just a question of whether he stays there or not.
