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Chiefs rookie pass rusher R Mason Thomas is already trying to prove everyone wrong, and he hasn't even played a snap yet
TL;DR
R Mason Thomas, a second-round pick by the Kansas City Chiefs, is determined to prove critics wrong despite not having played a game yet. His strong work ethic and focus on improving his pass rush skills have already made an impression during rookie minicamp.
Key points
- R Mason Thomas was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in the second round.
- Concerns about his size and arm length led other teams to pass on him.
- His work ethic and determination are expected to elevate his performance.
R Mason ThomasKansas City ChiefsNFL Draft 2026
Feb 25, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Oklahoma defensive lineman R Mason Thomas (DL60) speaks during the NFL Scouting Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
The Kansas City Chiefs took R Mason Thomas in the second round after every team passed on him for his size and arm length.
R Mason Thomas could be the draft pick from the 2026 NFL Draft that surprises this fan base the most. Sure, he was a second-round pick, so it's not like he will be a player who comes out of nowhere. However, his work ethic will elevate him beyond what most expect of him.
He's already showing some of that, and he's not even played a game with the Chiefs yet. In fact, he just finished his first weekend of rookie minicamp, and he already got right back to work, perfecting his craft and honing in on his pass rush moves. Thomas' mentality and work ethic are qualities you just don't often see in players in his position.
The Chiefs needed some help on the edge with getting to the passer. This draft pick is a little against what Steve Spagnuolo usually likes. Thomas is a bit smaller than the usual build KC goes for. However, his speed-to-power, bend, and hand usage while rushing the passer are pretty good, too. Thomas is twitchy, uses natural leverage to get underneath blockers, and is very instinctive.
There are some downsides to Thomas, though. He's prone to jump offsides, as he had three of those calls in 2025. His lack of length does show, as sometimes he's forced inside the tackle. If he's double-teamed, even if it's with a tackle and tight end, he's got almost no shot to beat that double team.
But, once again, he has an insane motor; just watch another play from that same game as he chased down an RB on a 44-yard run.
R Mason Thomas is an extremely clutch player, just ask Auburn
There's no real way to say this other than the fact that Thomas is a dog. He calls his shot, and he closes out games. That's why his nickname in college was "The Closer."
Q&A
What are R Mason Thomas's strengths as a rookie pass rusher?
R Mason Thomas is noted for his strong work ethic and determination to improve his pass rush skills, which are key strengths as he enters the NFL.
Why was R Mason Thomas selected in the second round of the NFL Draft?
R Mason Thomas was selected in the second round of the NFL Draft by the Kansas City Chiefs despite concerns about his size and arm length, as teams overlooked him.
What impact could R Mason Thomas have on the Kansas City Chiefs' defense?
R Mason Thomas could significantly impact the Chiefs' defense by bringing a strong work ethic and unique skills that may exceed expectations for a second-round pick.