Bill O’Brien continues to load up on skill position players, as four-star Massachusetts running back Johnathan Thomas verbally committed to play for Penn State.

#PennState has picked up a verbal commitment from former #Maryland commit, RB Johnathan Thomas. http://t.co/tqa3FmGfAX

— Ryan Snyder (@BWISnyder) October 21, 2013

Thomas currently attends St. John’s Prep in Danvers, Massachusetts, the same high school as Bill O’Brien. The 5’11” Thomas held offers from Arkansas, Boston College, UConn, and Maryland, and originally committed to play for the Terrapins on May 9 of 2013. He is the third running back recruit in the class of 2014, joining Mark Allen and Nick Scott.

ESPN’s #1 prospect in Massachusetts injured his knee earlier this season and is out for the year. Prior to his injury, Thomas led the state in rushing yards and total touchdowns. As a junior, Thomas racked up 1,947 total yards and 18 touchdowns.

With this commitment, Penn State has 14 players in the class of 2014. Thomas is the second player to commit this week, joining New Jersey tight end Mike Gesicki. ESPN rates Thomas as a four-star running back, while Rivals and 24/7 list him as three stars. ESPN and 24/7 rate him as the best player in the state of Massachusetts.

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