Southern Miss WR Mike Thomas Visits Browns

The departure of Travis Benjamin opened a large hole on the Cleveland Browns' roster.

The club met with one draft prospect who could fill the gap, wide receiver Mike Thomas out of Southern Miss, on Wednesday.

Southern Miss WR Mike Thomas met w/#Browns earlier today. #NFLDraft

— Luke Easterling (@LukeEasterling) March 30, 2016

Not to be confused with Michael Thomas out of Ohio State, Mike Thomas will likely be drafted somewhere between the second and fourth rounds.

According to Southern Miss reporter Julius Kizzee, several other teams have shown interest in the 6'1, 186 pound wideout.

Mike Thomas has interest from Browns, Eagles and Chargers. Also, wouldn't mind going back home to Chicago. @MT88_ pic.twitter.com/DSb3tuh91f

— Julius Kizzee (@juliuskizzee) March 24, 2016

As draft profiles on Pats Pulpit and Pride of Detroit have noted, Thomas is a significant vertical threat and an outstanding athlete. The Chicago native finished his senior season with 71 catches for 1,491 yards and 14 touchdowns.

Thomas also finished first in the nation with 19.6 yards per catch (minimum of 65 catches). And he brings versatility as a kick returner. Not bad.

Also, check out this Odell Beckham Jr.-like catch Thomas made last season (courtesy of Pride of Detroit).

Damn.

The knocks on Thomas are few, though significant. Thomas is a little slim for an X receiver and also struggles with blocking technique. As some draftniks have pointed out, too, Thomas does drop some passes.

However, judging from Thomas's highlights, it's tough not to like him.

Now, the question becomes: Do the Browns like Thomas enough to draft him?

[H/T Pride of Detroit and Pats Pulpit]