Playing defensive end for one of the better programs in all of 3A, James Thomsen James Thomsen 6'3" | 220 lbs | DL/TE Solon | 2027 State IA was bigger and quicker than the majority of the offensive linemen he faced. Able to beat offensive tackles off the edge with lateral speed and upper body strength, Thomsen is one of the more physically imposing D-ends in eastern Iowa.

With his violence, heavy hands, explosion and high motor, it’s a bit of a surprise other Division I programs haven’t offered the powerful pass-rusher — yet. Firing off the edge and terrorizing quarterbacks throughout the season, Thomsen should get more of a shot from DI programs with a bigger senior campaign.

While certainly overlooked at times due to the bountiful amount of electric playmakers on the Spartans, James Thomsen James Thomsen 6'3" | 220 lbs | DL/TE Solon | 2027 State IA was a steady hand for their defense and should continue to remain so as one of the leading figures of their defense returning in 2026. Thomsen recorded 39 tackles (23 solo), 12.5 TFLs, 5.5 sacks, 1 FF, 3 fumble recoveries, and 1 defensive TD last season. Thomsen was quite exciting to watch last season, proving so explosive and fast off the snap, being able to consistently break into the backfield in little time and swing the QB down, proving aggressive and very effective. Thomsen will certainly be at the forefront of their defense in 2026, and his presence certainly won’t be ignored by his opponents any time soon.

It’s not hard to be overshadowed when playing at Solon. The Spartans roster usually is filled with prospects with potential to play at the next level. That was the case in 2025, when they reached the state semifinals before suffering their first loss, which came against eventual Class 3A champion Nevada. Thomsen recorded 39.0 tackles with 23 of those stops being solo. He rolled up 12.5 tackles for loss and 5.5 sacks. He forced a fumble and recovered three fumbles. When we pop on his junior highlight video, there’s a prospect that’s a blur coming off of the edge. He fires off of the snap and is on the ball carrier quickly. Speed and athleticism stick out. His frame is projectable, capable of adding weight and strength.