Scouting Future Saints: Oklahoma Sooners edge rusher R Mason Thomas

Thomas had 9 sacks and 12.5 stops for loss during a full season for the Sooners in 2024, leading the team in both categories. It was also enough to earn him 2nd Team All-SEC recognition. Last season, he again missed a few games with leg injuries. Still, Thomas flashed enough to earn 1st Team All-SEC honors with 6.5 sacks and 9.5 stops for loss along with 4 forced fumbles over his final two seasons at Oklahoma.

Strengths

• Explosive get-off at snap
• Very good dip around edge to get around blockers
• Takes smart angles to the ball
• Decent power in pass rush
• Good recognition of inside runs
• Excellent pursuit speed

Weaknesses

• Lacks ideal length and size
• Gets routinely dominated by larger blockers
• Doesn't have the strength or base for a down lineman spot
• Pushed around easily as a run defender
• Missed multiple games in 3 of 4 seasons

R Mason Thomas 2026 draft outlook

If R Mason Thomas were bigger or even had prototype length, he may be mentioned as a late first round sleeper. As it is, his speed around the edge and natural pass rushing skills make him a probable Day 2 choice, perhaps as early as the second round. He has some scheme limitations because of his size and need to add power. However, he can be a very effective situational pass rusher in the right system.

A team like the Saints would employ their ends in a lot of stand-up rushing roles. For Thomas, this is the ideal fit. If New Orleans goes another direction with their first round choice, then R Mason Thomas could definitely upgrade their pass rush and be a passing down complement to Chase Young if available on the second day.

This article originally appeared on Saints Wire: 2026 NFL Draft: Oklahoma Sooners EDGE R Mason Thomas scouting report