Jakobe Thomas

● Adequate frame for the position with room to add more bulk ● Fast and physical attacking gaps in the run game ● Runs the alley with conviction and fearless throwing his body around ● Sticks his hat into the midsection of his target and drives through ● Understands spacing in zone looks where he can track the quarterback’s eyes ● Finished interceptions he got his hands on ● Miami liked to blitz the safeties, and Thomas flourished in this area ● Described as “coachable” and someone who “wants to be great” by NFL scouts ● Has the skill set for special teams (blocked a PAT in 2023)

● Mediocre recovery speed when attempting to make up ground in coverage ● Average hip fluidity and occasionally stumbles when making quick transitions ● Can be manipulated by veteran quarterbacks and lose proper spacing ● Too willing to leave his feet and launch as a tackler ● Could have been ejected from the national championship game because of a helmet-to-helmet hit on Fernando Mendoza (Ejected from a game in 2024 for targeting) ● Brings pop as a tackler, but average strength will complicate the finish ● Only one season of high-level production at a Power 4 program

A one-year starter at Miami (2.5-year starter overall), Thomas was a versatile safety in defensive coordinator Corey Hetherman’s 4-2-5 base scheme. He moved up from Middle Tennessee State to Tennessee before the 2024 season but found himself stuck in a reserve role. He joined the Hurricanes for his final season and went from barely on the NFL radar to a draftable prospect. He played triple the snaps for Miami and posted 11 passes defended and five interceptions, including several plays on the program’s run to the national championship game. Against the run and in coverage, Thomas is chomping[a] at the bit to make plays. He reads it, triggers and looks to tune up ball carriers. He plays a lot more physically than he looks, although his aggressiveness can be a double-edged sword and lead to over-pursuit or missed tackles. He tracks the quarterback well from depth with ball skills but will overthink route concepts and isn’t as effective once he turns his back to the ball. Overall, Thomas is a passionate competitor, which can lead to missteps but will also put him in position to play fast and make plays. He has the floor of a special-teamer and the potential to earn a starting role.