Andrew Thomas committed to Georgia earlier this summer.
When the four-star offensive tackle chose to play for the Bulldogs, he laid out the reasons in a straightfoward manner. The nation’s No. 11 offensive tackle also had a big day on Tuesday.
The 6-foot-5, 326-pound Pace Academy senior was presented his U.S. Army All-American jersey at a school ceremony. His remarks after receiving the jersey are worth watching. Thomas shared his appreciation for being named to the U.S. Army All-American team without the benefit of notes.
“I really just got up there and just thought about it looking at all the friends, family and teammates and coaches,” Thomas said. “I saw all those faces of those who have really supported me and it meant a whole lot. I really appreciate them coming out and truly appreciate the honor to get to play in a game like this.”
His words provide a window into the type of player and person that will be a part of the future of the offensive line at Georgia. Thomas currently rates as the nation’s No. 58 overall prospect for the Class of 2017.
Elite recruits now have the option to play in the Army Bowl or the Under Armour All-American event every January.
Thomas based his decision off an example of service.
“I like the Army part of it,” Thomas said. “It seems like I am not directly serving my country but I am indirectly getting to honor and support those by playing in something like this. I also look at it as the first glimpse of what college football will be like. Playing against the best guys in the country is what I imagine the SEC will be like.”
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Follow Jeff Sentell on Twitter for the latest on who’s on their way to play Between the Hedges. Unless otherwise indicated, player rankings and ratings are from the 247Sports Composite.