If you're looking to pick up a solid player in the 2013 MLS Draft, why not go with a guy who has set records at his school?

Sure, the Elon Phoenixes aren't exactly a team that makes most people quake in their boots, but senior Chris Thomas is a special player. Thomas set the record for the most goals by an Elon player only 10 games into the 2012 season and continued on his pace after that, shattering it in the end. His final tally was 23 goals and five assists, not bad in a 22-game season!

His pedigree extends to a big batch of awards won by the guy, as well as a rare national ranking for the Phoenixes.

If Thomas were drafted by the Rapids, he would likely be groomed as Edson Buddle's back-up at the center forward position, probably the biggest offensive need. He certainly has the skills to pay the bills: he can move the ball around and earn an assist or two up top, has good skills with his head and, most importantly, knows how to finish even when under pressure. There would be few complaints having a guy like that under Buddle's tutelage next season.

Video of Chris Thomas: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sw1M0xy7jdM