Kansas City Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo and his unit continue battering opposing offenses, but an injury to cornerback Jaylen Watson pushed former seventh-round pick Nazeeh Johnson into the starting lineup. Kansas City’s secondary performs at a high level, but the Chiefs should look into adding more cornerback talent and depth through the draft.
Florida State Seminoles cornerback Azareye’h Thomas is a physical marvel with a tall 6’2″, 198 lb. frame and long arms that should surpass the league’s thresholds. He is a high-end version of the height, weight, and speed combination the Chiefs pursued at cornerback in past drafts.
Thomas uses poised footwork and fluid hips to mirror wide receivers at the line of scrimmage. He uses his long arms and sturdy punches to re-route receivers and drive them toward the sideline. He lacks elite downfield speed but is fast enough to carry most receivers vertically out of press coverage.
Thomas’ pattern matching and anticipation of routes set him apart from other cornerbacks in the class. He accelerates and decelerates at rare rates for a cornerback with his frame, which allows him to stick with shiftier receivers.
Azareye’h Thomas is my favorite press-man CB in this class (if he declares). Effortless mover at 6’2″, A+ ball skills & route ID, it’s hard to find a weaknesses in coverage. QBs have avoided him this year so he hasn’t been as productive, but I have a 1st round grade on him atm pic.twitter.com/Ez9JDfitQO
— James Foster (@NoFlagsFilm) October 24, 2024
Thomas uses his anticipation and closing burst to undercut slants and crossing routes for pass breakups or interceptions. He plays tight to the receiver and allows limited separation going through sharp breaks. Thomas times his contact at the catch point well and rakes the receiver’s hands to pry the ball out.
Thomas is one of the youngest defensive back prospects in the class and is in his first season as a full-time starter for Florida State. His upside might elevate him out of Kansas City’s reach in the draft.
Florida State hosts North Carolina on Saturday, Nov. 2 at 2:30 p.m. The Tar Heels are 1-4 in their last five games, making this Florida State’s best chance to earn its second win of the season.
