Jets Rookie Azaleye Thomas Prepares for First Start
When Azaleye Thomas, a rookie for the Jets, chatted with his brother, Cowboys safety Juanie Thomas, throughout the season, Juanie’s advice consistently focused on one thing: be ready. Always prepare as if you’re a starter.
Juanie, now in his third year in the league, began the season as a backup too. But when Cowboys safety Malik Hooker hit injured reserve ahead of Week 5, Juanie seized the chance to start at MetLife Stadium.
Inspired by his brother’s approach, Azaleye has been preparing similarly. A third-round draft pick this past April, he had a few opportunities in the early games but now finds himself stepping in for star cornerback Sauce Gardner, who’s out with a concussion for the matchup against the Bengals. This means Thomas is set to make his first NFL start, a significant challenge against top receivers like Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins—proof that his brother’s guidance is truly resonating.
On Friday, Thomas was optimistic. He’s been gearing up for this opportunity since his rookie minicamp, eager to prove himself. “These are the games we live to play,” he stated.
The situation for the Jets isn’t ideal, with less than half a season gone and new coach Aaron Glenn’s squad struggling to find a win after seven games. Yet, Thomas, with family in attendance, saw a chance to leave his mark.
“When I was younger, I tended to look too far ahead, which caused me anxiety,” he reflected, explaining how he feels about making his first start. “Now, I’m focusing on the moment and improving my technique. I’m ready to accept whatever comes.”
After Gardner’s injury, Thomas played 27 snaps during the game, showcasing both his potential and the typical challenges of a rookie. Just minutes into the game, he made a strong play, breaking up a pass intended for Panthers receiver Teitairoa McMillan. Then, unfortunately, he was beaten on a third down play, allowing a critical 33-yard completion to Xavier Leggett.
As Glenn noted, that’s part of the cornerback experience. “These things happen,” he remarked. He also described Thomas as someone who has the potential to play an important role in the team’s future.
Maintaining a consistent position in the secondary could be tough, especially with Gardner and Brandon Stevens under contract for several more years. Nevertheless, Thomas had a solid college career at Florida State, logging 95 tackles, 8.0 tackles for loss, and 15 passes defended over three seasons.
After his freshman year with the Seminoles, Thomas began concentrating on the mental aspects of his position, which he claims helped him transition to the NFL. He realized that paying attention to the details is crucial. He sought advice from Gardner and Stevens on film study, learning that on-field actions matter significantly.
Adjusting his technique became essential, especially since he stands tall at 6-foot-1. Thomas pointed out that referees scrutinize taller players more closely, which made him more aware of the game’s nuances.
During the first seven games, Thomas had moments of contribution defensively. After Gardner went down in Week 3, he played 10 snaps and made his first impactful play. Plus, he participated in 43% of special teams snaps and will see an increased role until Gardner returns from concussion protocol.
“It’s a great opportunity for him,” Stevens mentioned, acknowledging the challenge ahead against top-tier receivers.
Upon hearing he’d be starting, the first person Thomas contacted was his mother, Stephanie Thomas. She played a significant role in fostering his competitive spirit, equipping him to face off against Chase and Higgins—two players who recently secured contracts totaling a staggering $276 million and have combined for six 1,000-yard seasons.
Thomas is determined to gain the respect of his teammates and coaches this weekend, viewing Sunday’s game as a pivotal moment in his pursuit of a fruitful NFL career. “I’m ready,” he said. “We’ve been preparing, and now it’s time to step up.”
