Steelers Free Agency: Top CB’s Left To Choose From

Oct 6, 2013; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals wide receiver

(11) lines up for a play against Carolina Panthers cornerback

(22) during the fourth quarter against the Carolina Panthers at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Casey Sapio-USA TODAY Sports

 Josh Thomas

Thomas (age 26 in May) was drafted by the Dallas Cowbowys in 2011. He was waived by them before that season even started and was picked up by the Carolina Panthers.

After his short stint in Carolina (3 seasons), Thomas became a journeyman for teams depleted in depth at cornerback. He saw time with the Seahawks, Jets, and Lions all in the span of last season.

Thomas is probably more known for losing his playbook when with the Jets than for his play on the field.

Thomas is much like Harris in that he has the skills to be a solid corner. He just hasn’t translated much from the collegiate level to the NFL. His success in Carolina benefitted mainly from their awesome pass rush – something better known as Mike Mitchell Disease.

But, he shouldn’t be completely counted out in this market.

Thomas is a big time competitor and works hard. He is a great run stopper coming in for support from out wide or off tackle. To his detriment, he can get caught looking in the backfield on a play action and lose his cover man.

He has good speed and agility, but his size (much like Brandon Harris at 5’11”) makes it difficult to leave him out on an island against some of the taller and speedier wide receivers in the league. Thomas also has some concussion concerns – he sustained a few in college and another while in Carolina in 2013.

Thomas is another great candidate to play nickel and be an added blitzer while in those formations. The Steelers and could get him for a bargain price, kick the tires in OTA’s and early camp, then decide to keep him or cut him.

Next: Josh Gordy