The 2025 NFL offseason is here and that means it’s time for mock drafts, draft profiles and everything that goes with them. So without further ado, here’s one of many Draft Profiles for the 2025 NFL draft.
Azareye’h Thomas, CB, Florida State
HT: 6’2
WT: 190 lbs
Accolades:
Bill McGrotha Award
All-ACC Academic Team
ACC Honor Roll
Video:
Pros:
• Exceptional length paired with quick-twitch athleticism allows him to shrink passing windows and affect throws even when slightly out of position in coverage
• Shows advanced route recognition from off coverage, particularly against quick game concepts where he consistently jumps underneath routes with explosive closing speed
• Natural mirroring ability in press coverage stands out on tape – patient feet and fluid hips let him match releases without defaulting to grabbing
• Rare combination of size and fluidity for the position – changes direction like a smaller corner while maintaining the length to challenge bigger receivers
• Excels at using the sideline as an extra defender, consistently funneling vertical routes toward his help and limiting space for receivers to operate
• Demonstrates veteran savvy with hand usage through the route stem, subtly directing receivers’ paths without drawing flags
• High-level competitive toughness shows up repeatedly against the run – triggers downhill aggressively and shows no hesitation taking on larger blockers
• Special teams experience across all units adds immediate value while he develops – size/speed combination makes him a potential gunner day one
Cons:
• Press technique remains inconsistent – powerful punch when landed but accuracy wavers, leading to compromised positioning against cleaner releases
• Occasional lapses in tackling fundamentals appear in space – relies too heavily on arm tackles rather than breaking down and driving through contact
• Ball production doesn’t match his disruptive abilities – needs to convert more deflections into turnovers at the next level
• Can get grabby when beat vertically, particularly against double moves where initial patient technique abandons him
• Takes overly aggressive angles pursuing outside runs, creating cutback lanes that negate his physical advantages in run support
Summary:
Thomas’s game footage reveals why scouts are taking notice: his 6’2″ frame packs impressive athleticism. He’s aggressive in press coverage, using quick hands and fluid footwork to stay stride-for-stride with receivers. However, upon closer examination, his limitations become apparent, explaining his projected early third-round draft position. Thomas often gets caught looking into the backfield, and savvy route runners can exploit him with double moves, leaving him vulnerable.
Thomas’s on-field demeanor is undeniably compelling – he embodies the fierce, competitive spirit desired in a boundary corner. His standout performance against Notre Dame showcased his tenacity, as he battled relentlessly and harassed the Fighting Irish’s outside receivers. However, his struggles against Duke, marked by three missed tackles in the open field, underscore his raw, unpolished edges. While possessing all the physical attributes necessary to trouble NFL receivers, Thomas must refine his skills to reach his full potential.
A late-second to early-third round draft position seems fitting for this cornerback, who exhibits glimpses of elite potential but remains unrefined. With two years of guidance from a seasoned defensive backs coach, who can refine his footwork and instill trust in his instincts, he may blossom into a reliable boundary starter. However, expectations of immediate stardom or shutdown capabilities against top receivers are unrealistic, and teams should temper their enthusiasm accordingly.
Information in this article first appeared on NFL Draft Buzz and is used with permission. Find the latest coverage, analysis, and player rankings for the 2025 NFL Draft at nfldraftbuzz.com
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