WEST POINT, N.Y. — For Army linebacker Andon Thomas, the journey from the banks of the Hudson to the bright lights of the College Gridiron Showcase (CGS) in Fort Worth, Texas, is more than just another football milestone—it’s a testament to grit, leadership, and the relentless pursuit of excellence that defines the Black Knights.
A National Stage for a Relentless Competitor
From January 9–11, Thomas will take the field at one of the nation’s premier postseason evaluation events for NFL Draft prospects. The CGS isn’t just another all-star game—it’s a battleground where the nation’s best seniors line up for on-field workouts, position drills, and interviews with scouts from the NFL, CFL, and beyond. For Thomas, it’s a chance to prove—once again—what Army football is all about: discipline, toughness, and heart.
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The Path to Fort Worth
Thomas’s invitation didn’t come easy or by accident. The senior inside linebacker started all 13 games in the 2025 season, racking up a team-leading 113 tackles. Every snap, every stop, every hit was a masterclass in preparation and desire. With 27 consecutive starts and 211 career tackles, Thomas has been the heartbeat of the Black Knights’ defense—always in the right place, always setting the tone.

Carrying the Torch
He follows in the footsteps of Army’s Leo Lowin, who represented the Black Knights at the CGS in 2024 and turned heads with his own relentless play. For Thomas, this is more than just a personal achievement it’s about carrying the Army legacy forward, showing scouts and coaches that West Point produces not just football players, but leaders built for the next level.
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- Army Falls in Overtime Heartbreaker to Loyola Maryland
- Army Junior Brent Keefer Named Atlantic Hockey Forward of the Week
The Selection Process: Earning Every Inch
Invitations to the College Gridiron Showcase are hard-won. College coaches, scouts, and analysts pore over film, stats, and intangibles, looking for athletes who excel not just on the field but in character and leadership. Advanced metrics and a rigorous evaluation process mean only the best get the call—Thomas’s selection is a badge of honor for him and the entire Army program.
What’s at Stake
For Thomas, the CGS is a shot to put his name on every scout’s radar. It’s a week of high-pressure drills, interviews, and competition—where every rep is watched, every answer matters, and every moment is a new opportunity. But if you’ve watched Thomas anchor the Black Knights’ defense, you know he’s built for this spotlight.
Pride of the Corps
As Thomas heads to Fort Worth, he carries the pride of his teammates, coaches, and the Long Gray Line with him. He’s more than just a linebacker—he’s a leader, a competitor, and a symbol of Army’s never-quit spirit.
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