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Lawrence Thomas could be next in the long line of playmakers at Linebacker U - ESPN

10/28/09

By Bill Kurelic
NittanyNetwork.com

Detroit (Mich.) Renaissance linebacker Lawrence Thomas is one of the top junior linebackers in the Big Ten region, and Penn State is one of the schools in the running for his services.

The ESPNU 150 Watch List prospect's junior season came to a conclusion last weekend as Renaissance finished with a 4-3 record. In those seven games Thomas made 89 tackles including 16 sacks. He had a whopping 26 tackles for loss and intercepted two passes. Thomas started at both middle linebacker and tight end during his sophomore season. He made 77 tackles and had five sacks.

The 6-foot-4 and 235-pound Thomas, who runs the 40-yard dash in 4.6 seconds, has seen his scholarship offer list steadily rise since the beginning of September.

"I have at least eight or nine offers," Thomas said. "Michigan State, Michigan, Alabama, UCLA, Oklahoma, Florida, Wisconsin, Syracuse, Vanderbilt and Colorado, they all sent papers. And Penn State gave me a verbal offer."

Thomas has visited Michigan State and Michigan, attending games at both schools.

"I like all the schools," Thomas said. "They are all great. Right now I'm just trying to get more information and more offers."

When asked about the Nittany Lions, Thomas said, "Me and my dad are thinking about going to Penn State at Christmas break. The linebackers coach (Ron Vanderlinden) came to our school. He said they are losing a lot of linebackers. He wants me to go out there and see Penn State."