Lies, Damn Lies and Myths: Joe Thomas Edition

Several analysts were talking about this weekend's NFL draft on Cold Pizza a few minutes ago. When the subject came up about Wisconsin tackle Joe Thomas, one analyst closed the segment by mentioning that Thomas is so calm, cool and collected about draft day that he's spending the day fishing with his dad.

It's a great story, but the thing is ... that's just Joe Thomas.

Back story: during recruiting, Thomas was one of the nation's most sought-after prospects anywhere. Coaches from around the nation came calling but it became apparent to many he'd stick with homestate Wisconsin.

The reason?

To borrow a lyric from John Denver, "thank God he's a country boy". Thomas is just one of those people happy to go fishing, hunting or ride ATV's. He found that with the homestate school and he'll find that on draft day. Take a look at where he took his official visits: Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska and Virginia Tech. Lots of wide open spaces at those colleges, no?

So then is it any surprise that someone with the discipline to pass up elite colleges to visit ones that fit his off-field tastes will spend draft weekend fishing?

It helps to know the full story so please file the whole "he's calm this weekend because he's fishing" thing under "myth". The reality is Joe's just being Joe.