Nnadi, Thomas plan to return for senior seasons; others mulling options
MIAMI GARDENS – While most of the late-season focus has been on Dalvin Cook’s future plans, the standout Florida State tailback is not the only draft-eligible Seminole with an important decision to make.
At least four other FSU juniors -- offensive tackle Rod Johnson, wide receiver Travis Rudolph, linebacker Matthew Thomas and defensive tackle Derrick Nnadi -- have been mulling over their futures as well. And the early returns look promising for Florida State fans.
Nnadi, who recorded five tackles in Friday’s 33-32 Orange Bowl victory against Michigan, did not waver at all when asked by Warchant about his thoughts about leaving early for the NFL.
“In February 2014, on Signing Day, I committed to Florida State,” Nnadi said. “And I’m still committed to Florida State. So I have all intentions of coming back next year.”
Thomas, who led the Seminoles Friday with a career-high 15 tackles, was adamant that he will be returning to Tallahassee for his senior season as well.
“I’m not thinking about it,” Thomas said. “I know I’m going to come back next year. I’ve got a lot to work on. I want to get better. I want to be one of the best linebackers in the country. So I have a lot of work to do this offseason.”
Thomas has been outstanding in the second half of the season. He tied for the team high with seven tackles against Florida, he finished second in tackles against Syracuse, tied for first against Boston College and third against N.C. State.
He has been the Seminoles’ leading tackler overall during that stretch.
“I feel like it’s a good start,” Thomas said. “But I’ve got a lot of work to do. I know the level that I want to be at, the level where I hold myself at, the level where I know I can be at ... I’ve got to do a whole lot better. I’m just looking forward to next year.”
Rudolph, who has been the Seminoles’ leading receiver in both the 2015 and ’16 seasons, said he wasn’t as sure about his future. While he would like to return to earn his degree, Rudolph said he will weigh his potential draft stock and other factors.
“I’m definitely going to have to talk with my coaches and my family as well,” Rudolph said. “Wherever I feel like is the best opportunity for me. I’m definitely more leaning on getting my education. And I graduate next fall. That’s a plus.”
Cook and Johnson, meanwhile, were completely non-committal.
Both said they would go home and talk things over with their families in the coming days. Cook is projected by many to be a first-round draft pick, while Johnson said he is waiting to see where the NFL’s underclassmen advisory committee projects he would be selected.
* ALSO SEE: The end is near? If so, Cook says farewell in style
Johnson added that he will listen to the feedback head coach Jimbo Fisher receives from his NFL contacts.
“He’s been honest with me my whole career,” Johnson said.
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