By Dalton Ray–
Over the past two years, the two inside linebacker spots on Louisville’s defense has been locked down. Now that James Burgess is gone, there’s an opening needs to be filled. In the Music City Bowl, fans got a chance to see what to expect from Stacy Thomas.
Burgess was ejected during the game’s first drive and Thomas stepped in. Thomas, the then-sophomore, ended up leading the Cardinals in tackles in the bowl win. Thomas had 11 of his 31 tackles on the year in his first full game for U of L.
Thomas has been able to earn respect from his teammates by putting in work on special teams. When two players such as Burgess and Keith Kelsey are ahead of you, reps can be limited.
Defensive coordinator is Todd Grantham has been very impressed with what Thomas has become.
“He’s ready to become a starter, he’s worked really hard. He’s athletic, he’s gained weight this offseason. I really happy he’s apart of our backers,” Grantham said. “I think he’s going to be a very productive player. I’m excited about his work ethic. He’s put his time in and now he’s ready to go play.”
Thomas came into Louisville as a four-star recruit out of Miami. Recruited by Clint Hurt, Thomas was proclaimed as another tough, strong defensive recruit. After redshirting in 2013, Thomas has played in every game over the past two years.
After having surgery due to a non-football related injury, Thomas is expected to be back on the field early this season.
Photo by Dalton Ray / The Louisville Cardinal
