Brian Thomas Jr.'s Stats, Metrics, Game Logs, Projections & Rankings

The Athletic's Jeff Howe writes that Jacksonville Jaguars rookie first-round wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. seemed to make a positive impression during offseason workouts. Thomas is in a good spot heading into his first year in the NFL because the Jaguars already have a cache of proven skill players, so he can come into his own at his own pace. The Jaguars will be thrilled if he can solidify an early role as a speed-driven deep threat for quarterback Trevor Lawrence. Fantasy managers considering drafting him in single-year leagues in 2024 will want to keep a close eye on how the 21-year-old's skills will translate in a more physical environment in training camp this summer. The LSU product was in the shadow of Malik Nabers in college and is probably going to struggle for consistent targets in 2024 as long as Christian Kirk, Gabe Davis and Evan Engram all stay healthy.

Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. agreed to and signed his rookie deal on Friday, the team announced on X. The LSU product was selected with the No. 23 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft after posting 68 receptions for 1,177 yards, and 17 receiving touchdowns (led nation) in his final collegiate season. With Jacksonville losing Calvin Ridley this offseason, they're expecting the 21-year-old to eventually develop into a No. 1 wide receiver for Trevor Lawrence. While wideout Christian Kirk and tight end Evan Engram are likely to be Lawrence's preferred targets early in the 2024 campaign, Thomas Jr. could become a solid weekly flex option later in the season. He should be able to fend off Gabe Davis if he lives up to his status as a first-round pick.

The Jacksonville Jaguars wasted no time in replacing Calvin Ridley by selecting LSU wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. with the 23rd overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft. The former Tiger played alongside fellow standout Malik Nabers, but do not overlook his talent. The 21-year-old led the FBS with 17 receiving touchdowns in 2023 and totaled 1,177 receiving yards. Thomas Jr. will be a popular pick in both dynasty and redraft as he should slot in as the number two wide-out behind Christian Kirk and should be a solid option for Trevor Lawrence.

Although LSU wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. stands in the shadow of teammate Malik Nabers for the upcoming NFL draft, the 6-foot-2 7/8, 209-pounder is viewed as a possible top-20 pick in April. "He's about as naturally talented as you can find at the position," NFL Network's Bucky Brooks said. "Big, fast, physical. Runs great routes. Natural catcher. Does a really good job of watching the ball into his hands. He can shine." The biggest question for Thomas is whether he can step outside the shadow of Nabors and be an alpha dog for an NFL team. Because he didn't work out at LSU's pro day on Wednesday, Thomas may not have answered that question completely, but it doesn't mean that a receiver-needy team won't be willing to take him in the first round in 2024.