Rutgers leads for big DT

Defensive tackle Wayne Thomas out of Nottingham, N.J. holds two scholarship offers at this point in the recruiting process. The 6-foot-6, 285-pounder's coach, C.J. McKenna believes one of those programs stands out for the stud tackle.

"He loves Rutgers and they have treated him really well," he said. "I know the coaches there want him to be the first person to verbal for 2007 and he really likes the fact that they are close to home. I think being close to home is what he needs. Wayne has never lived away and he is the type of kid that needs family around to help him stay in the right direction.

"I think he really might choose Rutgers because he likes their players and coaches. They also keep telling him that he has a chance to be an impact player his first year. One other thing that makes me believe they are his favorite is the fact that they were the first school to offer. Wayne has told me he'll go to whoever is good to him and Rutgers continues to check up on him, text messaging and all that."

Currently the lineman prospect holds two offers from Temple and Rutgers, but McKenna believes other schools are very close to offering.

"Michigan State and Ohio State have mentioned the possibility of offering very soon," he said. "I think Wayne is probably going to make a final decision in August so that if he gets hurt he's guaranteed to go to school with a scholarship."

Thomas put up gaudy numbers last season registering 102 tackles, 19 for loss, 13 sacks, one interception, four forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries.

"This boy can play and I have been coaching for six years and he is the best I've seen yet," McKenna explained. "His size and athleticism really makes him stand out and he makes moves like I've never seen a big guy do before. He has a seven foot wingspan and the ability to play either side of the line, but I think he is better at defensive tackle. He is also really polite and a great kid to be around."

The Garden State prospect plans to attend the Elite College Combine this spring. Thomas is planning to attend camps at Ohio State and Rutgers this summer.