Georgia’s Andrew Thomas announces decision on NFL Draft, playing in Sugar Bowl

Andrew Thomas’ illustrious career as Georgia’s offensive tackle has come to an end.

Thomas, a mainstay as the Bulldogs’ left tackle, declared for the NFL draft Tuesday. He is a projected top-5 selection on a number of mock drafts and has emerged as the nation’s top offensive line prospect.

“Since I was a little kid, I’ve dreamed of playing in the National Football League,” Thomas wrote. “Today, I’m taking a step to turn that dream into reality.”

Thomas will not play in the Sugar Bowl against Baylor on Jan. 1, 2020. Former cornerback Deandre Baker didn’t play in the game last season.

Thomas has consistently been an All-American and an All-SEC selection after starting for the Bulldogs in each of his three seasons. He started his freshman season at right tackle, then moved to left tackle.

Thomas is expected to be the second offensive lineman to be a first-round draftee at Georgia. Isaiah Wynn, in 2018, was a selection of the New England Patriots.

Georgia awaits the status of right tackle Isaiah Wilson, who plays opposite Thomas.