The New York Jets took a major step toward reinforcing their secondary by selecting azareye'h thomas—a dynamic cornerback from Florida State—in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft. With his collegiate experience and competitive mindset, Thomas is poised to make an immediate impact in the NFL.

Drafted for Potential: Thomas Joins the Jets

The Jets picked azareye'h thomas with the 73rd overall pick, aiming to fill a crucial need at cornerback after the departure of veteran D.J. Reed. Thomas started 12 games for the Seminoles in his final season, recording an impressive 52 tackles, five pass defenses, and an interception. Altogether, he played 37 games for Florida State, tallying 95 tackles, 17 passes defended, and two career interceptions.[^1]

Thomas is recognized for his physical style and lockdown capabilities. As he told reporters after being drafted, "I'll smother you, I'm going to lock down my side of the field and I'm a great teammate." His confidence is matched by a diverse athletic background; Thomas excelled in multiple sports before choosing football as his primary path.

Athletic Lineage and College Career

Azareye'h Thomas comes from a family known for athletic talent. His oldest brother, Azende Rey, played wide receiver at Texas A&M and Georgia Tech, while another brother, Juanyeh Thomas, became a safety in the NFL with the Cowboys. Growing up in Florida, azareye'h distinguished himself early, making varsity as a sixth-grader before moving on to Niceville High School, where he played both sides of the ball and did not allow a touchdown in coverage during his junior year.

At Florida State, Thomas faced tough competition but stood out as a reliable defender committed to team success. His head coach at the Jets, Aaron Glenn, spotlighted Thomas's play speed as a standout quality, comparing him to Carlton Davis for his on-field quickness and football intelligence.[^1]

A Fresh Start in New York

Selecting azareye'h thomas was a move to bolster the Jets' already-talented secondary. He now joins a defensive backs group featuring Sauce Gardner and Brandon Stephens, forming a formidable unit renowned for size and intensity. Thomas himself noted the significance: "Sauce is actually one of the guys that I've studied and watched. It's just a blessing to be here and it's crazy how everything comes full circle."

As reported by Andrew Crane at the New York Post, the Jets will count on Thomas to help replace the production of Reed. His skill set and football IQ make him a compelling addition with the potential to lock down opposing receivers and energize the defense.[^2]

Looking Ahead: A Name to Watch

Azareye'h Thomas is no stranger to overcoming adversity or proving doubters wrong. Despite receiving offers from powerhouse programs like Alabama, Georgia, and LSU, he selected Florida State to be closer to his family. Now, he is taking the next step in his journey, ready to compete and grow at the professional level.

For an in-depth look at Thomas’s college statistics and draft journey, check out the official Jets announcement and see why he was a top target for their defensive rebuild.[^1]

Final Thoughts

Azareye'h Thomas's arrival in New York signals a promising new era for the Jets' secondary. Blending agility, toughness, and a relentless will to win, Thomas is primed to become a key figure on and off the field. Keep an eye on this rising star as he brings the same tenacity and drive that defined his career at Florida State to the bright lights of the NFL.

[^1]: Jets Select Florida State CB Azareye'h Thomas with the 73rd Overall Pick in the 2025 NFL Draft – New York Jets
[^2]: Jets add Florida State's Azareye'h Thomas to replace departed vet – NY Post