this is just such a disappointing result for this player, especially after the NKeal Harry disaster. Thornton was supposed to open up the middle of the field with his speed. If he was just rookie Tony Simmons-level effective we could be happy. For reference and for those band waggoneers who don't know Tony Simmons - second rd pick in 98 that was supposed to "take the top off" for Bledsoe in Ernie Zampese's burgeoning (which unfortunately never came to fruition) Air Coryell-type Pats offense. Simmons did catch 23 passes and average over 20 yards/reception. Thornton averaged 12 yards/ receptions his rookie year, kinda sad for a speed guy.