Grading Brian Thomas Jr.’s 2024 NFL Draft landing spot with Jaguars

Catching passes from Lawrence will feel like a walk in the park for Thomas, who also had an easy time in college as he caught passes from Heisman winner Jayden Daniels. Thomas was extremely successful alongside Malik Nabers, the fifth overall pick in April’s draft, so he is more than comfortable dealing with competition.

With how the current WR room is structured for Jacksonville, Thomas has a clear shot at becoming a field-stretching threat right out of the gate. Being one of the few bigger-bodied wideouts on the roster, Thomas shouldn’t have to compete with either Davis or Christian Kirk for much outside work.

Also working in Thomas’ favor is just how important the “X” receiver is for Lawrence, something that really hasn’t been filled by someone of Thomas’ size in many years. Dating back to his days at Clemson, Lawrence was spoiled by being able to target Tee Higgins, who has a physical profile similar to that of Thomas, which makes this addition a pretty seamless fit.

Year 1 expectations

For the first time in a very long time (if ever), every team in the AFC South division is aiming to compete this upcoming season. While the Houston Texans are very easily the top dog in the division, the Titans added Calvin Ridley to build around Will Levis, the Colts are welcoming back Anthony Richardson from injury, and the Jaguars have a strong offense with a new number one receiver.

Thomas finally has his shot to be “the guy” in the Jacksonville offense, and he could very well see over 100 targets in his rookie campaign. While the offense has enough talent for Lawrence to spread the ball around, once the Lawrence-Thomas relationship gets off the ground, it could be hard to stop.

Not talked about in the same sentence as the top three WRs in this year’s draft class, Thomas has the skills to make a big-time impression right out of the gate. A knock on his game is how he only had one season of real production at LSU, so the threat of him being a one-hit wonder is there, but shouldn’t be a big worry for the Jaguars moving forward.

2024 Stat Projections – 63 receptions, 879 receiving yards, 6 TDs

Fantasy Football impact

In terms of looking for mid-round targets, Thomas should be on your list. If your name isn’t Marvin Harrison Jr. or Nabers, then this year’s rookie WR class might be a bit disrespected when it comes to draft time.

However, offseason hype could easily drive up Thomas’ average draft position (ADP), but he should still be very reasonable to acquire. If you are on the clock and looking for a WR3/4, Thomas should be able to fill that void in your roster for the 2024 NFL season.

In terms of his dynasty stock, Thomas will likely be the WR4 drafted in your rookie drafts, behind Harrison Jr., Nabers, and Bears rookie Rome Odunze. With his blend of athleticism and speed, combined with his landing spot, he profiles well moving forward.

Landing spot grade

Grade: A

Harrison Jr. might be the only rookie receiver that was drafted into a better landing spot than Thomas. Jacksonville is still in their competitive window, and being attached to a QB like Lawrence is incredibly helpful for a rookie wideout.

Thomas could come out of the gates a bit slow, as he finds his spot in the WR rotation, but expect a big year from the LSU rookie in year one. While he could even be a surprise threat for the Rookie of the Year award, expect a solid first season for Thomas as he gets his feet wet in the NFL.

Jacksonville will likely utilize Thomas all over their formations, as he has experience dating back to his college days running from both the slot and outside roles. But don’t be mistaken – nothing will be handed to Thomas, so he will need to work for his starting role, even if the depth chart says it’s a slam dunk.