The New Orleans Saints have been consistently bullied in the trenches over the last few seasons. New Orleans indicated that they are trying to rectify this with several offseason moves.
The Saints traded for nose tackle Davon Godchaux, then added guard Dillon Radunz in free agency. New Orleans then used their first-round choice on Texas OT Kelvin Banks Jr. and followed that up by drafting Longhorns DT Vernon Broughton in the third round.
With their undrafted rookie additions, the Saints also made it clear that they were focusing on the trenches. New Orleans brought in several offensive linemen, but also signed a productive defensive tackle from a top conference.
Omari Thomas, DT (Tennessee)
Tennessee Volunteers defensive lineman Omari Thomas (21) sacks Kentucky Wildcats quarterback Brock Vandagriff (12). © Caitie McMekin/News Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Tennessee Volunteers defensive lineman Omari Thomas (21) sacks Kentucky Wildcats quarterback Brock Vandagriff (12). © Caitie McMekin/News Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
A native of Memphis, Tennessee, Thomas was a productive interior defender for the Volunteers. He appeared in 61 games over his five seasons, starting 41, and was one of the team's captains.
Over his last four years, Thomas had 5 sacks and 18 tackles for loss. Alongside DT Omarr Norman-Lott, a second-round choice this year, the pair gave Tennessee a formidable interior defense.
Despite his build (6'3" and 300-Lbs), Thomas has been more of a pass rusher than a prototype run stopper. As a pass rusher, he doesn't have enough agility or burst to be an end in 3-man fronts. To be an effective ''3-technique'', he must improve his swim move and first step.
Tennessee defensive lineman Omari Thomas (21) wraps up UTSA running back Kevorian Barnes (4). © Saul Young/News Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK
Tennessee defensive lineman Omari Thomas (21) wraps up UTSA running back Kevorian Barnes (4). © Saul Young/News Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK
Against the run, Thomas got shoved around too often. His upper body power must show great improvement to hold up at the point of attack, especially against double-team blocking. He also hasn't shown good enough lateral movement to make plays down the line of scrimmage.
Thomas has the frame to add more bulk and power. His long arms allow him to keep blockers at bay, set up counter moves, and disrupt the passing lanes for opposing quarterbacks.
Thomas has a decent first step to gain quick leverage on blockers. His foot quickness and change-of-direction are good enough to make him effective on stunts.
Tennessee Volunteers defensive lineman Omari Thomas (21) rushes against the North Carolina State Wolfpack. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
Tennessee Volunteers defensive lineman Omari Thomas (21) rushes against the North Carolina State Wolfpack. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
While Thomas doesn't have athletic traits that jump off the charts, he does have an impressive motor that forces blockers to battle through the whistle on every snap. He also possesses good recognition against the run, often allowing him to slide into position to make a play.
Omari Thomas has the odds stacked against him to even make the roster, let alone make an impact. He'll need to prove that he can be a factor against the run while also turning heads as a pass rusher.
The Saints need a difference maker on the interior of their defense. Thomas will have his opportunities to earn that chance. Despite no standout measurables, he was able to be a productive defender in the prestigious SEC with Tennessee.