While (Alando) Tucker was still at Wisconsin, it was often suggested figuratively that he walked in the same shoes — which would be the adidas brand in the UW context — as Outland Trophy winner Joe Thomas, the All-American left offensive tackle. Tucker and Thomas were not only marquee players in their respective sports but they were priceless goodwill ambassador’s for the athletic department, the school and the state of Wisconsin.
Upon embarking on pro careers, Tucker and Thomas anticipated being in a state of flux. But whereas Tucker is now working for his employer, Thomas is still unsigned and his NFL career is on hold. A recent headline in the Cleveland Plain Dealer — “Trouble looms in signing Thomas” — spelled it out.
A pre-training camp rookie orientation got under way Monday and the Browns were minus their top three picks: Thomas, the No. 3 selection overall in the draft; Notre Dame quarterback Brady Quinn (No. 22 in the first round) and UNLV defensive back Eric Wright, a second-round pick.