Solomon Thomas, the defensive tackle for the Dallas Cowboys, has returned to his roots in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a commitment to community engagement. Born in Chicago and raised in Coppell, Texas, Thomas’s journey to the NFL has been marked by resilience, leadership, and a deep sense of purpose.
After a standout high school career at Coppell High School, where he recorded 12.5 sacks as a senior, Thomas went on to play college football at Stanford University. There, he earned first-team All-Pac-12 honors and was named the Morris Trophy winner in 2016. His impressive college performance led to his selection as the third overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft by the San Francisco 49ers.
Over the course of his NFL career, Thomas has played for the 49ers, Las Vegas Raiders, and New York Jets, accumulating 18.5 sacks and establishing himself as a formidable presence on the defensive line. His journey has not been without challenges, including a season-ending ACL injury in 2020, but his determination and work ethic have seen him through.
In March 2025, Thomas signed a two-year, $8 million contract with the Dallas Cowboys, marking a homecoming to the area where he grew up. This move not only brings him closer to family and friends but also reunites him with defensive line coach Aaron Whitecotton, with whom he worked during his time with the Jets.
Since joining the Cowboys, Thomas has been impressed by the team’s culture under head coach Brian Schottenheimer. He describes the atmosphere as “college-like,” emphasizing the energy and enthusiasm that permeate the locker room. This environment has fostered strong relationships among teammates, particularly within the defensive line group, where Thomas has found camaraderie and support.
Beyond his on-field contributions, Thomas is deeply committed to mental health advocacy. Following the tragic loss of his sister to suicide in 2018, he founded “The Defensive Line,” a nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing youth suicide. He has collaborated with Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott on various initiatives, including raising awareness for the 988 mental health crisis line.
As Thomas embarks on this new chapter with the Cowboys, he brings not only his athletic prowess but also a strong sense of leadership and community involvement. His journey from Coppell to the NFL and back to Dallas is a testament to his resilience, dedication, and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact both on and off the field.
