Jemea

Thomas

Called a “four-down type player” by coach Bill Belichick, Thomas’ biggest strengths are his versatility and football intelligence. He will be asked to contribute on special teams right away and could develop into a movable piece for the Patriots’ secondary.

Thomas (5-foot-9 1/8, 192) made 29 starts for the Yellow Jackets, playing safety and corner and essentially filling a “rover” role as a senior. He finished his career with nine interceptions. Thomas ran 4.55 at the Combine with a 37-inch vertical and 10-foot-5 broad jump, demonstrating explosive lower-body movement. A striker in the run game, Thomas is somewhat speed deficient and isn’t built ideally for any particular position. He’s just a good football player, and should help on special teams right away.

The Patriots’ sixth-round pick in May, Thomas lasted under a week on Dallas’ roster. The Cowboys needed to make room for new LB Korey Toomer.

Thomas was the 206th overall pick in May’s draft. Coach Bill Belichick called Thomas a four-down player when the Patriots drafted him. He was expected to contribute heavily on special teams. Thomas can play safety and corner.