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The Eagles have addressed their need at safety in the offseason but it is likely they will continue to add to the unit in the draft. While Malcolm Jenkins is a surefire starter, the rest of the unit has question marks. With the draft weeks away, the Eagles are likely preparing to add competition to the position. Georgia Tech's Jemea Thomas jumps out on tape, even with Jeremiah Attaochu in the fold.
College Career
A native of Fitzgerald, Ga., Thomas committed to Georgia Tech in 2009. As a true freshmen, he served as the backup to current Packers safety Morgan Burnett. He played in 14 games and had 10 tackles, a pass breakup and a forced fumble. He was redshirted as a sophomore and played on the scout team.
As redshirt sophomore, Thomas played in all 13 games (two starts) and had 50 tackles (four for loss), two sacks, three interception, six pass breakups and a forced fumble. In 2012, Thomas started in all 14 games and collected 61 solo tackles (three for loss), six pass breakups and four interceptions.
In his final season at Georgia Tech, Thomas let the team with 88 tackles (six for loss) and eight pass breakups. He also had three sacks, two forced fumbles and two interceptions. He was invited to the East-West Shrine Bowl and played in the game.
Combine Numbers
Height: 5'9"
Weight: 192 lbs
Arm Length: 30 5/8"
Hand: 10 inches
40: 4.55 seconds
Bench: 19 reps
Vertical: 37.0 inches
Broad: 125.0 inches
Strengths
Thomas is a box safety that is tremendous against the run. He is a solid tackler and is patient against the run. He has solid recovery speed and is able to return kicks. He never missed a game in college. Thomas has the ability to cover and make plays especially against crossing routes.
Weaknesses
He will get over-matched by bigger tight ends and struggles against vertical routes. He is a bit too patient at times and is not the most athletic player. He is short and a bit underweight and struggles to get off blocks. He is hesitant in coverage and his change-of-direction is a bit rough.
Eagles Outlook
Thomas may not be the prototypical defensive player for the Billy Davis defense, but he could add an element to the defense that it is not known to have. Thomas is a great tackler and he can easily upgrade that aspect of the Eagles secondary. He is likely a late-round pick worth taking a flier on for the Eagles. He is someone the Eagles could develop into a third safety down the road.
Trust Your Own Eyes