SIGNEE: Daniel Thomas

Daniel Thomas wasn't expecting to be part of this class, but National Signing Day can be crazy like that. Another player or two falls through and then an offer materializes. That's what happened to Thomas this morning and he didn't have much time to consider his options. It was Auburn or Minnesota. He picked the Tigers.

THE PLAYER: His speed and general athleticism won't blow you away. He's a little shorter than his listed height -- probably more like 5-10 -- and doesn't stick out like some of the more high-profile safeties. However, Thomas is a smart player who positions himself well and positions his defense well. He understands overarching defensive concepts and thinks along with the coaching staff, which is a big plus. Safety is the one spot where savvy can overcome a lack of physical gifts. Adlai Trone and Eric Brock were two unheralded Auburn safeties who enjoyed long careers because of their ability to play intelligent football.

THE FUTURE: Thomas will enroll this summer as organizational depth at safety. Fellow signee Marlon Character is a more nuanced player and there are several experienced guys in the system already.

ARRIVAL DATE: It'll be a little while. Even if Thomas grows into a starter, it'll take him some time to grasp Kevin Steele's defense and understand exactly how Steele adjusts things in real time. I'd be surprised to see Thomas contribute at safety before 2018, though he could be a special-teams force before then.