Fisher expects LB Thomas to be fit

TALLAHASSEE — Florida State linebacker

was expected to make his return to practice on Monday, said during his opening press conference of the 2017 season.

“He should be practicing today,” Fisher said of Thomas, who has been absent from practice since Aug. 8. After Monday’s session, DE and OL

said Thomas “looked good” in practice. No. 3 Florida State opens the season against No. 1 Alabama on Saturday in Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta at 8 p.m. The Seminoles have closed practice to media this week.

Thomas’ return could be significant for the Seminoles’ defense, which returns 10 starters from a season ago.

Thomas led the Seminoles with 77 tackles last season and added 11 tackles for loss, a sack, a forced fumble, two pass deflections and four quarterback hurries.

He secured a career high with 15 tackles and 3.5 tackles for loss in FSU’s Orange Bowl win over Michigan to end last season.

During the first week Thomas was absent from practice, Fisher said Thomas was suffering from an illness on Aug. 8 and Aug. 10.

Fisher did not express much concern for Thomas’ durability despite missing a majority of preseason camp.

“He’ll be in condition,” Fisher said. “I’m sure he has run on his own, but we’ll see.”

No. 3 FSU vs. No. 1 Alabama (Atlanta), Saturday, 8 p.m., ABC

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