Cornerback Ambry Thomas continues to be a revelation for the 49ers’ secondary, and his insertion into the starting lineup after the bye week has been perhaps the biggest key to San Francisco’s defense getting back on track.
The addition of defensive end Chase Young has undoubtedly helped as well, but it’s hard to argue with Thomas’ production since Week 10 in Jacksonville.
In that game against the Jaguars he allowed two catches for 14 yards on three targets. The following week vs. the Buccaneers he gave up three catches for 16 yards and a touchdown on five targets.
His string of good performances continued Thursday night against Seattle where he allowed two catches for 16 yards and hauled in an interception on four targets.
In those three games Thomas has been targeted 12 times. He’s given up seven catches for 46 yards and a touchdown. He also snagged an interception. Quarterbacks have a dreadful 59.7 passer rating when throwing his way per Pro Football Focus.
This isn’t the first time Thomas had a stretch of good play. He was very good to close his rookie year in 2021 as well. This time though his play has coincided with the 49ers defense playing as well as it has all season. It’s also been a key factor in the team getting right after some defensive struggles in the middle of the schedule.
Perhaps he comes back down to Earth at some point, but if Thomas keeps playing like this there aren’t many weaknesses in the 49ers defense.
