The New York Jets used their third-round pick (73rd overall) in the 2025 NFL Draft to select cornerback Azareye’h Thomas from Florida State.
Thomas played three seasons with the Seminoles, appearing in 37 games and starting 20. He recorded 95 total tackles, nine tackles for loss, two interceptions, and 15 pass breakups during his college career. In 2024, he started all 12 games and was named an Honorable Mention All-ACC selection.
Standing at 6’1.5″ and weighing 197 pounds, Azareye Thomas has the size and length that fits the mold of a modern NFL boundary corner. He measured with 32-inch arms and ran the 40-yard dash in 4.58 seconds. While his timed speed was average, his game tape showed the ability to stick with receivers and limit big plays. During the 2024 season, Thomas allowed just 17 completions on 33 targets for 141 total yards, the fewest yards allowed among ACC cornerbacks with at least 110 coverage snaps.
With D.J. Reed no longer on the roster, Thomas joins a cornerback group that includes Sauce Gardner and several young players competing for depth and starting roles. The Jets continue to add talent under their new coaching staff as they look to strengthen the defensive side of the ball. His physical style and versatility should give him the opportunity to compete for playing time in multiple defensive packages.
The Jets continue to focus on defense early in the draft, adding another young piece to Aaron Glenn’s unit. Other die-hard fans are in our forums, sounding off on Azareye Thomas. Be sure to stop by and see what they are saying.
