De’Anthony Thomas is, easily, the best overall athlete in the class of 2011. But until now, Thomas had been considered off-limits, firmly committed to USC since May of last year. There was never a peep about Thomas wavering, but news broke late Sunday night that Oregon secured a visit and that a commitment may soon follow. On Monday, Thomas called a press conference at ESPNZone in Los Angeles to announce his college decision — an oddity for a recruit who has been committed for almost a year.
It took a turn for the weird today when Adam Gorney, a Rivals recruiting analyst, said he was hearing Washington is in the mix for Thomas, as well (H/T Bob Condotta from the Seattle Times). Once again, it’s all rumors at this point. With less than 24 hours to go until recruits can sign letters of intent, you’ll hear plenty of rumors about de-commitments, commitments and players shuffling around as letters hit the fax machines.
For Washington fans, though, this is a intriguing rumor — one that has to have fans excited. With three schools apparently in the mix — Washington, Oregon and USC — there’s plenty of intrigue surrounding Thomas, and where he may end up on Wednesday. Then again, this could all be for naught if Thomas is just generating hype to simply confirm his USC commitment.
Keep an eye on Thomas as the signing day deadline approaches. He’ll be announcing at 5 p.m. on Wednesday from Los Angeles. For the latest, check out our national signing day StoryStream.