Russ Thomas

John Russell Thomas (July 24, 1924 – March 19, 1991) was an American professional football tackle who played four seasons with the Detroit Lions of the National Football League (NFL). He was selected by the Lions in the third round of the 1946 NFL draft and again in the 2nd round of the 1947 NFL draft after playing college football at Ohio State University. Thomas was the general manager of the Lions from 1967 to 1989.

Early life and college John Russell Thomas was born on July 24, 1924, in Griffithsville, West Virginia. He attended Charleston High School in Charleston, West Virginia.

Professional career Thomas was selected by the Detroit Lions in the third round, with the 22nd overall pick, of the 1946 NFL draft. He signed a one-year contract with the Lions. He played in all 11 games, starting one, for the Lions during his rookie year in 1946 as the team went 1–10.

Post-playing career Thomas was an assistant coach on the Detroit Lions' 1952 and 1953 NFL Championship teams. After a stint as a broadcaster, Thomas became the team's director of player personnel. He served as the general manager of the Lions from 1967 until his retirement in 1989. He was unpopular with Lions fans for his tough stance at the negotiating table and the scapegoat for the team's mediocrity during his tenure. He died in his sleep on March 19, 1991. The Lions players wore a silver football shaped patch on the left chest of their jerseys with the initials 'JRT' in his memory during the 1991 season.