Thomas (hamstring) returned to practice Thursday, ESPN.com reports. As did Jamaal Charles, with Thomas a name to file away in deeper formats, assuming -- as expected -- that he moves into the sort of versatile role in the Chiefs' offense previously held by Dexter McCluster.

Thomas was slowed Wednesday by a spasm in his hamstring, the Kansas City Star reports. The fourth-round draft pick has opened eyes during training camp, displaying versatility while working as a runner, receiver, and punt returner. In doing so, he has made a case for himself to help fill the void created by the free agent departure of Dexter McCluster.

Thomas ran once for 13 yards and recorded two catches for minus-eight yards in Sunday's preseason game against the Panthers. Though Thomas is behind Jamaal Charles and Knile Davis in the Chiefs' RB pecking order, he figures to carve out a role in the team's offense this season, with his versatility pointing to him moving into the role previously held by Dexter McCluster. In such a scenario, he could merit fantasy attention, notably in PPR formats.

Thomas returned a punt 80 yards for a touchdown in Thursday's preseason opener against the Bengals. Thomas added three yards on one carry but wasn't targeted in the passing game. He's listed third on the depth chart at running back, but Cyrus Gray might actually be ahead of Thomas for carries, if Jamaal Charles or Knile Davis were to suffer an injury. However, unlike Gray, Thomas doesn't necessarily need any injuries ahead of him to earn a role in the offense. The former Oregon Duck could work as a replacement for Dexter McCluster, who registered 20 carries and 105 receptions over his final two seasons with the Chiefs. Thomas also figures to work as the top punt returner, and he may get a crack at kickoffs.

Chiefs fourth-round pick De'Anthony Thomas has spent more time learning the playbook with RBs coach Eric Bienemy than WRs coach David Culley. It's just the latest indication that the Chiefs view Thomas' primary NFL position as tailback, perhaps eventually in a McClusterian role. At 5-foot-9, 174 with overrated speed, Thomas doesn't project as a fantasy football asset anytime soon.

Chiefs fourth-round pick De'Anthony Thomas has spent more time learning the playbook with RBs coach Eric Bienemy than WRs coach David Culley. It's just the latest indication that the Chiefs view Thomas' primary NFL position as tailback, perhaps eventually in a McClusterian role. At 5-foot-9, 174 with overrated speed, Thomas doesn't project as a fantasy asset anytime soon.

Chiefs fourth-round WR/RB/KR De'Anthony Thomas claims to be a "player that nobody's ever seen step on the football field." Thomas added that he aims to lead the Chiefs in nearly every offensive statistical category and wants to win Rookie of the Year honors while going to the Super Bowl. We obviously don't see any of the aforementioned goals happening for Thomas. He may not even have an offensive role as a diminutive slot receiver/running back. Thomas' most likely contributions will come on returns.

Beat writer Adam Teicher believes slot receiver is De'Anthony Thomas' most likely offensive role.

Chiefs signed fourth-round RB/WR De'Anthony Thomas to a four-year contract.