Active #57 Thomas, Eric, OL

PROFESSIONAL
Eric Thomas is entering his seventh season in the AFL, his first with the Rattlers. Playing for the Austin Wranglers in 2007, Eric Thomas started each of the 15 games he played as the center for Rattlers quarterback Lang Campbell.  As a defensive tackle, Thomas recorded one tackle.  In 2006, Thomas played in all 16 regular season games for the Austin Wranglers and one playoff game.  He recorded three tackles and a sack against Tampa Bay (4/15).  At the center position, secured an offensive line that allowed only two sacks all season.  In 2005, he again started and played in all 16 games for the Wranglers as the center.  Anchored an offensive line that allowed only four sacks all season, which was a league best.  Played in 15 games in 2004 for the Wranglers, used primarily at the center position.  In 2003, played in five games with one start at center during the regular season for the Tampa Bay Storm where he was a member of the ArenaBowl Championship team with the Storm.  In 2002, he recorded five starts in six games played on defense, accumulating two tackles on the season for the Tampa Bay Storm.  In 2001, played in final game of the regular season and one playoff game for Tampa Bay Storm, but did not record any statistics. Spent time on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ practice squad in 2001. Selected by the Frankfort Galaxy of NFL Europe in the third round (17th pick overall) of the 2001 free agent draft.  Originally signed by the Jacksonville Jaguars as a rookie free agent in 2001.

COLLEGE
Played four seasons at Florida State , finishing his collegiate career as the starting center on the 1999 National Championship squad that won the 2000 Sugar Bowl.  Was a first-team All-ACC selection.  Played in 45 games, starting 24 in his Seminole career.  Saw time at both center and guard for the Seminoles.  Graduated from Florida State (1996-2000) with a degree in child development.

HIGH SCHOOL/PERSONAL
Thomas was born November 5, 1977 and attended Columbus High in Miami, Florida .  Earned all-state honors and was rated as the third-best guard in the state.