Brian Thomas Jr. has a very intriguing NFL comparison, according to ESPN’s Adam Rittenberg. The former LSU wide receiver looks most like Tee Higgins.
The former Clemson standout and current Cincinnati Bengals pass catcher has been productive since coming into the league. It seems like the physical traits are very similar between both wide receivers.
Rittenberg broke it down ahead of the 2024 NFL Draft as Thomas is a projected first-round pick.
“At 6-3, Thomas used his length and speed to lead the FBS in touchdowns with 17 at LSU,” Rittenberg wrote. “His combine 40-yard dash time of 4.33 seconds was faster than Higgins’ 4.59 and should lead to an earlier selection, but both have big frames and the ability to rack up touchdowns in and around the red zone. Like Higgins, who averaged nearly 20 yards per catch in his final season at Clemson, Thomas can consistently attack defenses down the field.”
After modest production during his first two years, Thomas broke out last fall. He finished with 68 catches, 1,177 yards, 17 touchdowns and 17.3 yards per catch.
As a member of the Class of 2021, Thomas was a four-star recruit out of Walker (La.) High, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He was the No. 4 overall prospect in the state, the No. 15 wide receiver in the class and the No. 93 overall prospect in the class.
NFL draft insider Matt Miller evaluated the LSU earlier in the process and shared that he loves what Thomas brings to the receiver position. With his 40-yard time now in the books, he could very well join LSU’s Malik Nabers as a first round wide receiver.
Not only that, Miller also likened Thomas to Higgins.
“[LSU’s] other wide receiver, Brian Thomas – who happened to lead the nation with 17 touchdown catches last year. He is someone that can stretch the field vertically, he can beat you over the top,” Miller said. “I compared him to Tee Higgins, but here’s the thing. I think he’s actually faster than Tee was coming out of college. There could be some 4.3 ability here.
“He’s someone in the top 20, once we get past those big three receivers, I think a lot of teams are gonna fall in love with Brian Thomas Jr. this week. I know I have, watching the tape, so I think general managers are going to do the same because he’s an electric vertical threat.”
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