**Sleeper Alert: Former Vols WR Dont’e Thornton Could Be NFL Draft’s Hidden Gem**
While Dont’e Thornton’s college stat sheet (65 catches, 1,426 yards, 10 TDs across Oregon and Tennessee) doesn’t jump off the page, NFL scouts are taking notice of the electric wideout as the 2025 draft approaches. The Maryland native’s blistering **4.30-second 40-yard dash** at the Combine confirmed what Tennessee fans saw last season – he’s one of college football’s most dangerous deep threats, having led all qualified FBS receivers with a staggering **25.5 yards per catch** in 2024.
Pro Football Focus recently crowned Thornton with the **”best long speed”** in this draft class, calling him **”a big play waiting to happen.”** Though currently projected as a Day 3 pick, the 22-year-old’s rare combination of size (6’5″) and elite acceleration makes him a prime candidate to outperform his draft position.
“Thornton’s the type of prospect who could thrive in the NFL,” one AFC scout noted. “His skill set translates better to the pro game than the college spread offenses he played in.” With teams increasingly valuing vertical threats, Thornton’s stock may quietly rise as draft night approaches – potentially making him this year’s most intriguing late-round steal.
**Why He’s Flying Under the Radar:**
✔️ Played in run-heavy systems at Oregon/Tennessee
✔️ Raw route-running overshadowed by explosive plays
✔️ Just scratching surface of potential at 22 years old
As one NFC executive put it: “Someone’s going to get a developmental weapon who could pay off huge in Year 2 or 3.” Will your team take the chance on this high-upside Vols alum?
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