Impact analysis: 'Special' LB Adonis Thomas fills important need for FSU

After originally signing with Alabama out of Central Gwinnett (Ga.) High School, Adonis Thomas ended up transferring to Northwest Mississippi C.C., where he had 73 tackles and 11.5 tackles for loss this past season.

As a senior in high school, he racked up 124 tackles, 11 tackles for loss and five sacks. Todd Wofford, who was Thomas' coach at Central Gwinnett, said the Seminoles are getting a player who can attack opposing offenses in several ways.

"He's a game-changer," Wofford said. "He can pass rush in flying off the edge, but he's so good in coverage and he's incredibly smart. This kid is about business, and that's how he approached the process. He's ready to work. He's a guy I certainly expect to make a very early impact. That's the type of kid he is. He's relentless."

Thomas showed that business-type approach with his commitment. Instead of hyping up his announcement, he posted a simple message on Twitter saying that he was grateful for the opportunity the FSU coaches had given him and that he wouldn't take it for granted.

"Great combination of sports and academics," Thomas told Warchant, when asked why he picked the Seminoles over several other suitors. "Coaches are going to develop me into the player I want to become. I'm going to be around some great players that bring out your very best."

Wofford said he believes Thomas will need little time adjusting to the college game.

"What's crazy about Adonis is that at 6-foot-4, 230 pounds, he's a great impact player as a tackler, hitter, but he's very good at covering backs and tight ends," Wofford said. "That is rare for a guy that size. But that's an area he's very talented at."