May 1, 2007

Former University of Illinois running back Pierre Thomas signed a free agent contract with the New Orleans Saints, Sunday evening, after the conclusion of the 2007 NFL Amateur Draft. Thomas will join fellow Illini Steve Weatherford, on squad, which was the runner-up in the NFC last season.

Thomas led the Illinois team in rushing three of his four years as a starter, racking up 2,545 yards in his career, which ranks sixth on Illinois¹ all-time list. He scored 20 touchdowns, averaging 5.6 yards per carry as an Illini. Twice he earned honorable mention All-Big Ten honors, was named the team¹s MVP twice and was a two-time team captain. Thomas was also a potent kick returner for Illinois, setting the school record for kickoff return yards. He averaged 25.3 yards per return, which ranked third on the Illinois career list.