NFL Draft Profile: Juanyeh Thomas, Safety, Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
#1
Pos: DS
Ht: 6005
Wt: 212
Hand: 0968
Arm: 3238
Wing: 7828
40: 4.55
Bench: 17
3-Cone: N/A
Shuttle: N/A
Vert: 34
Broad: 1002
DOB: 6/24/00
Eligible: 2022
Niceville, FL
Niceville High School
Juanyeh Thomas
Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
One-Liners
Big, run-stopping strong safety, who lacks the coverage ability to be a contributor at the next level.
Pros:
On film, Thomas is a physically imposing player. He is asked to play close to the line of scrimmage, as a run-stopping strong safety. Thomas is well built, with the play strength to hold up in the NFL. He is a big hitter, who looks to jar the ball loose when coming downhill. For the most part, Thomas is a good tackler and he can disrupt ball carriers at the point of attack. His range is solid because of his size and length, allowing him to get to ball carriers on outside zone runs.
Cons:
When it comes to his ability in coverage, Thomas struggles, which is a concern for his transition to the next level. In such a pass-heavy league, Thomas’ lack of overall speed and change of direction ability will limit his role. He is a liability in coverage and will need to play close to the line of scrimmage. There are times when his inability to change direction will prevent him from recovering when running backs change direction, hurting his ability as a run defender.
Summary:
The need for a run-stopping strong safety just isn’t valuable for teams anymore. Thomas is a gifted run stopper, with very good play strength and tackling ability. He was able to make a lot of plays in that regard. With that being said, his coverage ability is concerning and there just isn’t much upside in that regard. He lacks fluid hips and speed to keep up with NFL players. He is worthy of being brought into a training camp and in the right role could be a bottom of the roster player.
Background:
From Niceville, Florida and attended Niceville High School. Graduated in 2018 as a three-star recruit and had offers from Auburn, Florida, and Indiana. Named to the true all-America team and All-ACC as a kick returner. Becomes a starter in 2019 and finished fourth on the team in tackles. Started all 11 games in 2020.
Grades
6th Round
