Eric Thatcher Class: RS Junior Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio High School: Cincinnati Moeller Height / Weight: 5-9 / 195 Position: DB

2007 Scouting Report: Looking to bounce back from an injury-shortened sophomore season...was playing excellent football as Pitt's starting free safety through the first half of the 2006 season before a broken ankle ended his year...bounced back well from offseason surgery with a productive spring...displayed excellent leadership during the offseason, indicating he is ready to take on an advanced role in the secondary...slated to start at the free but can play at either safety spot if needed.

2006: Starter at free safety the first five games of the year...suffered a season-ending left ankle fracture during practice leading up to the Oct. 7 Syracuse game...had 21 tackles on the year...had a career-high eight tackles vs. Michigan State...had six tackles, his first career interception (in the end zone) and two pass breakups vs. Toledo.

2005: Reserve at strong safety who played in all 11 games to letter...also saw special teams duty...had 17 tackles on the year...had a season-high four tackles at Louisville...had three tackles versus South Florida and his first career sack...the sack went for an 11-yard loss, turning back a USF scoring threat.

2004: Redshirted as a true freshman.

High School: Four-year contributor to Cincinnati Moeller's varsity...first team All-Greater Catholic League...first team Southwest All-District...Cincinnati-Dayton Catholic League South Division Defensive Back of the Year...Special Mention All-Ohio Division I (largest classification)...helped team to a 7-4 mark and the state playoffs as a senior...played primarily defensive back as a senior and intercepted three passes, returning one for a 59-yard touchdown...primarily an offensive player his junior season and compiled 1,314 all-purpose yards to earn Greater Catholic League All-Purpose Player of the Year honors...selected to play in the Ohio East-West All-Star Game...rated one of Ohio's top 30 prospects by Rivals.com...SuperPrep All-Midwest Team...PrepStar All-Midwest Region...played under Coach Bob Crable...four-year football letterman and also lettered twice in track and field...participant in the Little Buddies Mentor Program.

Personal: Eric W. Thatcher Jr., born 12/5/84, is the son of Eric W. Thatcher Sr., and Antonia Jones...has one brother...administration of justice major.