The Virginia Tech true freshmen most Hokie fans are looking forward to seeing the most is also the one that gives coaches the most options. Logan Thomas from Brookville High School in Lynchburg, Va., was one of the most highly touted prospects in Tech's 2009 recruiting class. His arrival on campus has been anticipated since he committed to the Hokies last season.
But what position will Thomas play for the Hokies?
He was signed as an athlete, listed as a tight end by recruiting services and played quarterback for Brookville, leading it to the state championship game in 2008. What position he and the coaches decide on will decide what impact he will have on the team and how quickly he sees the playing field.
Thomas looked like a man among boys playing for Brookville in a smaller division. But you can't deny his athleticism even though he was able to run around and through his competition. He's fast for being 6-6, 230, and is strong in his upper body. Even though he was thought to be a tight end by the likes of Rivals and Scout, his size would make him a tough match up as a wide receiver.
But Thomas also throws a decent deep ball and put up big stats playing quarterback against his competition. He threw for 1,535 yards and 20 touchdowns and ran for 842 yards and 11 touchdowns last year. Tech's coaches have mentioned just about every position possible for Thomas this upcoming season, including an H-back, hybrid type player like Percy Harvin or lining up behind center in the Wild Turkey formation.
I think the Hokies should play Thomas at wide receiver this year. He can get on the field quickest and make the biggest impact there in 2009.
Even though the Hokies return all but three catches and 14 yards at wide receiver from 2008, none of those players have shown consistency or the ability to be a deep threat like I think Thomas can be. Jarrett Boykin is the closest thing to a deep threat Tech has but he's very young just like every other wide receiver on Tech's roster. Only 52 percent of the Hokies' catches and 61 percent of their receiving yards came from receivers in 2008.
Plus, Thomas' height and size make him a match up nightmare for opposing defensive backs, especially in the red zone. When the Hokies get close to the goal line, they should just throw a jump ball to Thomas and let him out-jump everyone in the end zone. His presence will him improve Tech's abysmal red zone stats if he's used correctly.
With Tyrod Taylor's leadership ability at quarterback and the depth Tech has at tight end, Thomas should play wide receiver for the Hokies in 2009. At receiver, he could have a huge impact for the Hokies by the middle of the season. It doesn't mean they shouldn't use him in a variety of roles, including H-back, in 2008 and his career. But his potential for 2009 is highest at receiver.