The New York Jets added size, skill, and a fierce competitive edge to their secondary on Friday night, selecting cornerback Azareye’h Thomas from Florida State with the 73rd overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 196 pounds, Thomas brings an impressive résumé from his collegiate career in Tallahassee. In his 2024 season, Thomas started 12 games, recording 52 tackles, 5 pass defenses, and an interception. Over three seasons with the Seminoles, he accumulated 95 tackles, 8 tackles for loss, 17 pass breakups, and 2 interceptions, solidifying his reputation as a dependable defender.
Known for his physicality and tenacity on the field, Thomas describes himself as a cornerback who thrives in man-to-man situations. “I’ll smother you,” Thomas said after his selection. “I’m going to lock down my side of the field, and I’m a great teammate.”
Jets head coach Aaron Glenn praised Thomas’ play speed over his timed speed, comparing him to Brian Branch, a successful player Glenn coached in Detroit. Thomas’ 4.58-second 40-yard dash may have raised questions during the pre-draft process, but Glenn emphasized his on-field performance. “Football is football,” Glenn noted. “He plays the brand that we want to play—a big, physical man ready to bring it every play.”
Thomas’ athleticism comes from a family steeped in sports. A Niceville, Florida native, Thomas grew up playing football, basketball, baseball, soccer, and track. His two older brothers also played college football, with Juanyeh Thomas signing with the Cowboys in 2022. Thomas’ versatility was evident from his high school years, where he starred on both offense and defense, amassing over 1,100 all-purpose yards in a single season and not allowing a touchdown in coverage.
Thomas’ decision to attend Florida State was influenced by his desire to remain close to his mother, who faced health challenges during his recruitment. He turned down offers from top programs, including Alabama and Clemson, to don the Seminoles’ garnet and gold.
Now, Thomas joins a talented Jets secondary led by All-Pro corner Sauce Gardner. “It’s crazy how everything comes full circle,” Thomas said of joining the Jets, adding that Gardner was one of the players he studied.
With a deep connection to his roots and a relentless work ethic, Thomas is ready to make an impact in New York. “I’m here now,” he said. “It’s a blessing, and I’m ready to get to work.”
