The former Florida State defensive lineman faces uncertainty as the Rams make tough decisions ahead of the 2024 NFL season.
As the 2024 NFL regular season nears, teams are making crucial roster decisions, and former Florida State standout Keir Thomas is among those affected. The Los Angeles Rams have waived the defensive end, according to NFL insider Aaron Wilson, as they finalize their squad ahead of the season opener on September 5, when the Kansas City Chiefs take on the Baltimore Ravens.
Thomas, who signed with the Rams as an undrafted free agent in 2022, spent the last two seasons trying to secure a permanent spot on the team. He appeared in 16 games, recording 10 tackles, two tackles for loss, and two quarterback hits while mostly serving in a backup role. Despite a solid performance in the preseason, where he logged four tackles across 139 snaps, the Rams decided to part ways with the 6’2″, 260-pound Miami native.
A star at Florida State after transferring in 2021, Thomas started all 12 games in his final college season, amassing 42 tackles, including 12 for loss, along with 6.5 sacks. Despite these impressive numbers, his journey in the NFL has been one of constant movement between active rosters and practice squads.
While there’s a possibility Thomas could return to the Rams’ practice squad, his future in the NFL remains uncertain. The cut comes as other former Seminoles, such as Jared Verse and Braden Fiske, are projected to secure starting roles on the Rams’ defense, highlighting the competitive nature of securing a spot on an NFL roster.
With over 16 former Florida State players currently vying for positions across the league, more changes are expected as teams continue to make roster adjustments leading up to the season. For players like Thomas, the dream of securing a spot in the NFL continues, even as the path becomes more challenging.
