But there were benefits to sitting out. He played in only four games, meaning he preserved a redshirt season. All the while, he could focus on both schoolwork and learning Husker defensive coordinator Erik Chinander's 3-4 system. But perhaps the biggest benefit was that he could get bigger.
Thomas' confidence this offseason will be critical as he fights for playing time on what many regard as the strongest and deepest unit of the Nebraska defense. During much of the recently completed spring practice season, first-year Husker defensive line coach Tony Tuioti referred to five linemen that separated from the pack.