Over the weekend, Oregon quarterback Darron Thomas announced his surprising decision to give up his senior season and put his name in the NFL draft. He joins fellow junior teammate LaMichael James, who projects as more of an NFL-ready talent. In fact, many experts say they would not be surprised if Thomas goes undrafted. Despite what the critics say, Thomas believes he can make the type of transition to the NFL that Cam Newton made.
“I am ready to go,” Thomas told ESPN over the weekend. “I left on a good note with the Rose Bowl and I am ready to further my life. I saw what Cam Newton did this year. He took his raw talent and made a spark. I can do those things, too.”
Are we thinking of the same Cam Newton? Thomas lit up the scoreboard during his college career. He was 23-3 as a starter for the Ducks and threw 66 touchdown passes and only 16 interceptions over the last two seasons. However, he was the quarterback of an extremely unique Oregon offense — one that plays at a rapid pace and would not work at the NFL-level.
Newton, on the other hand, was the first overall pick in last year’s draft. Despite what all the critics — including myself — had to say, Newton rewrote the rookie record books for the Panthers this season. He began the season as Carolina’s starter and immediately became an impact player. Very few rookie quarterbacks are capable of that.
There’s nothing wrong with Thomas setting his goals high now that he is hoping to move on to the NFL, but it’s probably better to keep expectations reasonable. Comparing yourself to the new rookie record holder for most total touchdowns and passing yards in a season does not qualify as reasonable.
