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The Nittany Lion announced the signing of Johnathan Thomas with the help of @NittanyvillePSU. Welcome to the family! pic.twitter.com/Ni3wJQy3CR
— Penn State Football (@PennStateFball) February 5, 2014
Shola Franklin and the Nittany Lion watch on as signee Johnathan Thomas face timed with the Lasch war room. pic.twitter.com/tbROfdfbJf
— Penn State Football (@PennStateFball) February 5, 2014
Thomas had committed to new B1G foe Maryland (its first commit for the 2014 class) earlier in 2013 before jumping ship and committing to Penn State in October. A power running back from New England, PSU was always the dream school for Thomas, who hails from former coach Bill O'Brien's high school alma mater.
After his junior season was cut short due to an ACL injury, Thomas came out strong his senior year, culminating in an invitation to the US Army All-American Bowl in early January. He's visited Penn State multiple times, including with the new coaching staff, and looks poised to be available to make an impact right away--but likely is a potential redshirt candidate, due to the quality depth of running backs already on the sidelines in Happy Valley.
Starzz:
247Sports: 3 stars (#26 running back, #1 player in Massachusetts)
Rivals: 3 stars (#39 running back, #2 player in Massachusetts)
Scout: 3 stars (#83 running back)
ESPN: 4 stars (#44 running back, #1 player in Massachusetts)
Other Links of Interest:
Johnathan Thomas on MaxPreps (high school stats)
Johnathan Thomas' Official Penn State Football Profile
Welcome to Penn State, Johnathan!