Ambry Thomas: The Michigan Wolverines’ #1 Youth College Career Ambry Thomas, who wore the #1 jersey for the Michigan Wolverines, had a standout youth college career that showcased his talent and potential as a cornerback. Born on September 9, 1999, in Detroit, Michigan, Thomas was a highly sought-after recruit in the 2017 class, rated as the 17th-best player at his position and the third-best player in the state of Michigan. He chose the Wolverines over schools like Penn State, LSU, Ohio State, Oklahoma, and Notre Dame. As a true freshman in 2017, Thomas got on the field primarily on special teams and as a kick returner, logging 397 yards on 20 returns. He also managed to get some defensive reps on a rotational basis. In 2018, Thomas split his time between special teams and defense, but he wasn’t yet a full-time player on the defensive side. However, as a true sophomore, he began to show his potential as a defensive starter, grabbing his first interception against Rutgers and tallying nine tackles. Thomas’ rise continued in the 2019 season when he made the leap to the starting lineup. It was his most productive season to date, with 38 total tackles, 3.0 tackles for loss, three interceptions, three pass deflections, and two fumble recoveries in twelve games. Although he didn’t receive all-conference recognition, he was named Defensive Skill Player of the Year by his teammates. Coming into the 2020 season, Thomas was highly anticipated, but the Big Ten season’s early cancellation put a hold on his expected breakout. With newfound NFL Draft aspirations after his 2019 season, Ambry Thomas ultimately decided to opt out for 2020 and declare for the 2021 NFL Draft. During his three seasons with Michigan, Thomas tallied 54 tackles, four interceptions, and nine pass breakups, while also returning a kick for a touchdown. His performance earned him a spot in the 2021 NFL Draft, where he was selected by the San Francisco 49ers in the third round. Ambry Thomas’ #1 jersey for the Michigan Wolverines is a symbol of his dedication and the impact he had on the team. His youth college career is a testament to his growth as a player and his readiness for the next level. As he continues his professional career, Thomas carries with him the experience and skills he developed during his time at Michigan.