Justin Thomas’ draft hopes get a boost

Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets quarterback Justin Thomas (5) looks for a space for a pass in the second half at Bobby Dodd Stadium on Thursday, September 22, 2016. Clemson Tigers won 26 - 7 over the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets. HYOSUB SHIN / HSHIN@AJC.COM

Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets quarterback Justin Thomas (5) looks for a space for a pass in the second half at Bobby Dodd Stadium on Thursday, September 22, 2016. Clemson Tigers won 26 - 7 over the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets. HYOSUB SHIN / HSHIN@AJC.COM

Former Georgia Tech quarterback Justin Thomas has received a noteworthy NFL audition. Thomas was a late invitee to the Senior Bowl, the premier pre-draft showcase game.

Thomas was invited to join the South team’s roster Thursday night after injuries took three defensive backs out of the week of practice and Saturday’s game in Mobile, Ala. Thomas made it to Mobile Friday for the final practice. He is expected to play defensive back and/or return specialist.

The Senior Bowl, primarily its practices, is attended by hundreds of NFL scouts, coaches and decision makers and typically draws the highest-profile draft prospects of any all-star game.

Thomas, the Jackets’ three-year starter and among the greatest quarterbacks in school history, was recruited by several schools to play cornerback, but chose Tech because of its offer to play quarterback.

The game begins Saturday at 2:30 p.m. ET. It will be broadcast on the NFL Network.