Florida State defensive back Azareye’h Thomas was the first Seminole to hear his name called in the 2025 NFL Draft going 73rd overall in the third round to the New York Jets. He will join former Seminoles Jordan Travis, Pokey Wilson, Derrick Nnadi and Jermaine Johnson in the Big Apple.
AZ was a consensus four-star recruit out of high school and a big-time signing for Mike Norvell early in his tenure at FSU. Thomas burst into the scene as a true freshman playing over 300 snaps across 11 games. He followed that up with a productive sophomore season appearing in all 14 games including one start on a loaded defense. During his 2023 campaign, Thomas racked up 29 tackles, 4.5 TFLs, 10 pass breakups, and 1 forced fumble. During his final season in Tallahassee, Thomas was quietly a bright spot during a bad season. He racked up 52 tackles, 1.5 TFLs, 4 pass breakups, and 1 interception while not allowing a single touchdown all season earning an All-ACC honorable mention.
Azareye’h became Mike Norvell’s 17th draft pick at FSU at the 301st selection all-time for the Seminoles. He was initially projected as a second-round pick but slipped with questions about his speed. However, there has never been any doubt about his size and the reputation he earned as being a “sticky” corner. The Jets likely got a steal at getting Thomas in the third round.
Azareye’h Thomas has always been strong in his faith, a quiet hard worker, and a great ambassador for the program. We congratulate him on living out his dream of playing in the NFL and wish him success. Thanks for reading and Go Noles!
The moment @Azareyehthomas became a J-E-T! 🙌 pic.twitter.com/YVwalC4qaY
— New York Jets (@nyjets) April 26, 2025
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