Jaguars UDFA profiles: Why Bryan Thomas Jr. could make roster push

The Jacksonville Jaguars announced that they signed 18 undrafted free agents following the conclusion of the 2026 NFL draft. Let's take a closer look at these players and highlight why each could make a potential roster push.

Up next is South Carolina defensive end Bryan Thomas Jr.

What to know about Bryan Thomas Jr.

Thomas Jr. had a breakout year in 2025, totaling 38 quarterback pressures and seven sacks. His previous career highs were 17 pressures, a mark he hit in 2023, and three sacks, which he recorded in 2024. Thomas has been a fairly sound tackler, and for what it's worth, he's graded out well against the run by PFF's metrics. sweetbonanza-app.com

Bryan Thomas Jr.'s athletic profile

Bryan Thomas Jr. is a DE prospect in the 2026 draft class. He scored a 6.14 RAS out of a possible 10.00. This ranked 873 out of 2257 DE from 1987 to 2026.https://t.co/2pftXTjTwEpic.twitter.com/jnPFtUVLuv

— RAS.football (@MathBomb) April 19, 2026

Why could Bryan Thomas Jr. make a roster push?

Admittedly, a roster push might not come easy at this position -- it's quite crowded. Between Josh Hines-Allen, Travon Walker, Wesley Williams, Zach Durfee, BJ Green, and Danny Striggow, that is already six potential roster spots accounted for. That said, there is a lot up for grabs here as well. Behind Hines-Allen and Walker, playing time and the depth chart ranking still have to be determined, and with those opportunities available, there is the possibility for Thomas Jr. to make some noise this summer.

This article originally appeared on Jaguars Wire: 2026 NFL draft: Could South Carolina DE Bryan Thomas make Jaguars' roster?

Tottenham midfielder Conor Gallagher has lauded the “personal touch” of new manager Roberto De Zerbi, crediting his one-to-one approach for igniting the club's Premier League survival bid.

The north London side climbed out of the relegation zone on Sunday following consecutive victories against relegated Wolves and Aston Villa, offering renewed hope for their top-flight status.

Gallagher, who netted his first goal for Spurs since his January move from Atletico Madrid during Sunday's 2-1 win at Villa Park, highlighted De Zerbi's individual-focused management style.

"The gaffer has been brilliant with us. He has brought the team together," the 26-year-old told reporters.

"He is really worked on players individually with one-to-one meetings and one-to-one chats, trying to get that belief and confidence back in the players. He has done that with me and it has made a big difference. I know he has done that with a lot of the other lads."

Gallagher revealed De Zerbi's specific encouragement, which reminded him of his past form.

"He just reminds me of when I was at my best. He said that second season at Chelsea, when I had a really good season, he just reminded me of that player," Gallagher explained. "He wants me to be like that again and to not forget how good I can be."

This personalised motivation, Gallagher added, has been extended to many within the squad, aiming to restore players to their peak form.Beyond individual attention, De Zerbi's impact has fostered team cohesion.

"As a team as well, all the work he has done on the training pitch and the meeting rooms, it has been fantastic and everyone is on the same page," Gallagher stated.

Despite the recent upturn, Gallagher remains grounded about the task ahead.

"There is a lot of work to do," he cautioned. "We are fully focused on the next game, hopefully do the same performance and another win."

Tottenham face Leeds at home next Monday, a crucial fixture in their bid for safety.

Manchester City will host their FA Youth Cup final against Manchester United at their smaller Joie Stadium after turning down an offer to switch it to Old Trafford.

City were drawn at home for the game but are unable to use the main pitch, with Pep Guardiola's first team still having three home Premier League games to play.

United, who last won the trophy in 2022 - when more than 60,000 were at Old Trafford to watch a team including Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho beat Nottingham Forest - told City they were prepared to host the game.

City said no, so the game will be played at the 7,000-capacity ground, which is used by the club's Premier League 2 and women's teams.

The club have used the stadium to host Youth Cup finals previously but since 2000, every other host club has played the game at their main stadium.

Two years ago a crowd of 20,000 watched City beat Leeds United in the final at Etihad Stadium.

It is a repeat of the 1986 final, hosted over two legs at Old Trafford and Maine Road and won by City.

United sources feel it is a mistake and will cost the majority of the players involved an experience in what could turn out to be the biggest game of their lives.

City are yet to confirm a date for the game but it is likely to take place on Thursday, 14 May. The club have been asked for a response.

• Follow your club with BBC Sport
• Listen to the latest Football Daily podcast
• Get football news sent straight to your phone