bio

Thomas Reed III was born and raised in New York, where his journey in football began at the tender age of 4, turning 5. His parents, Richard and Joanna Reed, enrolled him in the Brentwood Youth Association (BYA) in Brentwood, NY, taking a chance on his potential in sports. Although his parents were nervous for him to start a full-contact sport, it didn’t take long for Thomas to discover his passion. He quickly fell in love with football, an enthusiasm that would eventually shape the rest of his life.

As he transitioned to high school, Thomas attended Deer Park High School in Deer Park, NY. Out of his four years of high school, he became a three year varsity starter (sophomore to senior year), where he excelled as a defensive end and long snapper, but also showcasing his versatility by playing wide receiver and tight end.

His hard work and dedication culminated in his selection as a Blue-Grey All-American in 2014, a significant honor that highlighted his talents on the field. Being selected as a team captain, Thomas led from the front, further emphasizing his leadership skills and competitive spirit.

The pinnacle and closing of his high school career came when he was chosen to represent Team USA in the IFAF Olympic Tournament of American Football held in Kuwait in 2014. Out of over 40,000 players, only 44 were selected under the guidance of esteemed coaches Aaron Brady and Bob Trott. Thomas made a significant impact in the tournament by finishing with 3 sacks for a loss of 24 yards, 6 1/2 tackles, 2 tackles for loss of 12 yards, and 5 QB pressures over three games. His efforts contributed to Team USA's victory against Canada, making him New York's first Gold Medalist in American football at the age of 17 years old.

After high school, Thomas committed the start of his college football career at Nassau Community College in Garden City, NY, in 2016. As a freshman starting defensive lineman, he recorded 2 sacks and 25 tackles in just seven games. His standout performance came against Erie Community College, where he notched 1 sack for a loss of four yards and 9 tackles.

In pursuit of greater opportunities but aspirations to help his father who was dealing with a health condition, Thomas transferred to ASA College in Brooklyn, NY for the 2017 season.

After a successful stint, he received multiple scholarship offers and ultimately chose to commit to Adams State University in Alamosa, Colorado in 2018, which was also influenced by his father's health struggles. He was offered by former Miami Dolphins and Edmonton Elks Quarterback, who became Adams state Head Coach, Josh Blankenship and former San Francisco 49er & CFL Defensive End who became Defensive Line coach, Kai Ellis. At Adams State, Thomas recorded 15 tackles, including 6 for loss, and forced one fumble across six games.

Throughout his football journey, Thomas recognized the challenges of the recruitment process. Having navigated it alone in 2017 and 2018, he resolved to empower others. He became well-versed in NCAA eligibility requirements, outreach strategies for coaches, and the attributes that college coaches prioritize. His commitment to his teammates and friends became evident when he helped five of them secure college scholarships, thereby impacting their lives positively.

Following his junior and senior seasons, Thomas was invited to the NFL Pro Day in 2020 at Colorado State University-Pueblo, where he showcased his skills in front of several NFL teams, including the New York Jets, Denver Broncos, San Fransisco 49ers, New Orleans Saints. At his pro day, he jumped 10 feet, 6 inch in his broad jump (tied for 11th best in NFL class) and a 36 1/2 inch vertical jump (tied for 11th best in NFL class). He ended up pulling his hamstring during the remainder of his pro day, but still overcame the challenge. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted many plans, but Thomas remained undeterred.

In 2022, he took a significant step by signing his first professional contract with the Fan Controlled Football League in Atlanta, Georgia offered by a legendary coach by the name of John Jenkins, who has an extensive NFL, CFL, USFL & Division 1 coaching background. Then in 2024, he joined the Colorado Spartans in the National Arena League, continuing to chase his dreams on the field.

His best performance during his time with the Colorado Spartans, he recorded 2 sacks for a loss 22 total yards, 1 safety, tackle for a loss of 2 yard out of his total of 2 1/2 tackles, as well as 3 QB pressures in 1 game.

While focusing on his academic career—culminating in seven degrees (two bachelor’s and five minors)—Thomas dedicated himself to assisting athletes and families across the country in navigating the complex world of college recruitment. His dual commitment to academics and athletics exemplifies his belief in the transformative power of education and sports. Thomas Reed's journey is one of passion, dedication, and an unwavering desire to uplift others. From his early days in New York to the professional football career, he continues to embody the spirit of perseverance and adversity.

He is currently a free agent who is training & looking to still pursue his professional football career. As of October of 2024, he clocked in at 4.74 40 yard dash, 10ft 4 inch broad jump, 4.3 short shuttle, and 36.5 inch vertical jump which was verified by CFL, UFL, IFL coaches & scouts. He is also currently working as a sports performance coach and personal trainer while running his camps for the community and scholarship organization.