Even before Rett Thomas had played a varsity snap, we heard about the 2028 wide receiver’s potential. He was a standout track athlete in middle school, posting high jump numbers that were more akin to high school upperclassmen, so whether his athleticism would translate quickly was never a question.
Just last week, Thomas showed again how dangerous he can be in the open field. The 2028 receiver released 40 yards upfield, caught a pass down the left sideline where a pair of defensive backs measured a tackle, but Thomas stepped out of one attempt, then juked the other. With nothing left but green grass ahead, Thomas hit the jets and glided into the endzone to cap off the 66-yard touchdown.
The play was named among the top 10 of the week on Sunday night, and 24 hours later, it was voted the #3 play of the week.
“Sophomore year has been good,” Thomas said. “I’m improving week to week with opportunities on both sides of the ball. I had a late start due to a toe injury over the summer. Now, I am starting to help the team in several roles, including offense, defense, and special teams. Hopefully, I’ll continue to improve through the rest of region play, then in the playoffs.”
Thomas has 3 receiving touchdowns on offense, and defensively, he has 2 interceptions. He mentioned that he is still growing, listed at around 6′ and weighing 165 lbs. at the moment, but his leaping ability negates whatever length he might lack. Thomas has a lot of upside with his ability to attack the football at the apex of his jump. Couple that with his work ethic and background in track and field, and you have a uniquely special prospect.
“What separates me? I’m a track guy, mainly a jumper. Ranked 2nd nationally with a 6’7″ high jump PR, and I finished 2nd at our 2A state meet as a freshman. I’ll be running relays and probably some 400m as well as long jumping & high jumping this year. With all of these, speed is a priority; faster on the track = faster on the football field,” Thomas said.
Focusing on his top-end speed this offseason will be a key area, and while that’s all good, the season is still underway. Appling County is sitting firmly #2 in the region, so how does the sophomore want to finish off this season?
“Goals would be to stay undefeated in our region and see how deep we can go in the playoffs,” he said confidently.
On the recruiting front, Thomas is just taking everything in stride. He seems to understand the process well and is staying patient with every turn.
“Recruiting has been good. As a sophomore, more contact comes after June of this year. So I’m seeing some camp invites and some social media interest. No visits, I just continue to look for the best fit for me academically and athletically as I go forward.”
With a 4.0 GPA, a strong multi-sport background, Thomas is an indefinably elite athlete. His recruitment will certainly be worth watching over the next few seasons, so be sure to follow @RecruitGeorgia on Twitter/X to hear the latest on the 2028 prospect and players across the state of Georgia.
