Name: Steven Thomas
Position: Defensive Tackle
School: Wabash College
HT/WT: 6’4”/305 lbs.
Instagram: Steven.Thomas53
Achievements: 2x 2nd team all-conference, 2x captain. Sack leader 2023
How’d you end up at your current school? What was the recruiting process like?
I had some offers from NAIA schools but visiting Wabash it felt like the students on campus were very close with one another and it felt like it would be a good second home. The Defensive Line coach there at the time wanted me to go there and I thought the high level of play and the Monon Bell game would be an amazing experience. I got in contact with the coach after a player recommended me to him.
What gives you an advantage over other athletes at your position?
I have the size to play the position at the next level and also the strength to. I think that the footwork I have is rare for someone at my size.
What does being a student of a game mean to you?
A student of the game is someone that not only works physically to get better but mentally as well. Chess for example is a game that takes repetition and requires study to know what move to make in certain situations. I see pass rushing as something similar. You have a plan to your rush but then you also need to react if the lineman has a counter to you. After every play you learn more and more what the opponent will do. Studying is knowing the different moves you could make for each situation and then using them accordingly.
How does being a Defensive Tackle reflect itself in your personal life?
Its nice for me to have the spotlight sometimes but I enjoy doing something that I know no one else could do. At Defensive Tackle, sometimes you might get a big sack or tfl but sometimes the play is not getting pushed back on a double team allowing your linebacker to make the play. That is something that not everyone can do. I enjoy being the unsung hero a bit.
How would you describe your work ethic?
Disciplined. Sometimes putting in work isn’t always fun but being able to stay consistent and doing things that you might not want to do at the time is essential in the bigger picture.
What do you consider to be one of the more important things you learned from the coaching staff?
Learning how to be a leader to other people.
What would you consider to be your biggest accomplishment in your sports career so far?
Being able to leave a lasting impact at my high school and Wabash College
How did you hear about the National Scouting Combine?
I learned through My Defensive Line coach and when Trevor Frencic messaged me on Instagram.
Why did you choose the National Scouting Combine?
As a D3 athlete. I felt that it would be the best opportunity for me to get exposure to teams.
What do you hope to show people at the combine?
I hope to show off my footwork and that I have the drive to be great.
What was your Major?
Political Science, Philosophy, and Economics
If you could make a positive impact on all of society what would it be and why?
I would like to be an inspiration to people. I feel like a lot of people give up on their dreams because of risks that might be involved or because they are afraid of failure. I know that there are some kids that have the drive but maybe not the opportunity. I would like to help athletes in schools whether it be through donations or talking with them. I would like to help kids achieve their dreams whether that be acquiring resources or being a mentor.
What is something unique about you that people would find interesting?
I love learning the “why?” behind things. If there is a song, movie, or show that is great I get focused on what made it so great and watch videos and find my own reasons for it. Similar to athletes as well. Why are some athletes so great? It interests me. Even bigger things is the world why did certain events in history happen or why are some countries poor and others rich. I feel like knowing the “why?” behind things is so interesting and a big part of broadening knowledge.
If you had the opportunity to play another sport professionally, what sport would you choose?
Baseball
Are you involved in mentoring, a charity or do you “give back” or “pay it forward” in your community?
I am not involved in anything formally but I have always wanted to give back to the town of Danville where I grew up and get involved helping out athletes at the high school.
