Solomon Thomas

Solomon Thomas has played in the NFL for six seasons as a Defensive Lineman and is Co-Founder and Board Chair of The Defensive Line. Drafted as the # 3 overall player in the 2017 NFL draft by the San Francisco 49ers, he played 4 seasons for the Niners including Super Bowl LIV. His defensive skills have taken him to the Las Vegas Raiders and the New York Jets where he was their nominee for the 2022 & 2023 Walter Payton Man of the Year Award. In addition, Solomon was named the Heisman Trophy Trust Humanitarian Award recipient.

Off the field, Solomon has dedicated his life to sharing Ella’s story and has worked with a myriad of nonprofit organizations to raise awareness and secure funds for mental health and suicide prevention work. His courage to vulnerably share his experience through national media outlets like CNN, ESPN, The New York Times, and NFL Network have established him as a respected advocate in the field.

Solomon has a passion for working with young football players from middle schoolers to collegiate athletes. When not on the field – Solomon is known for his love Star Wars, great food, and his two pups!