New York Jets Place Promising Rookie Defender On IR
The New York Jets have placed rookie cornerback Azareye’h Thomas on injured reserve with a shoulder injury, officially bringing his promising first season to a premature close. With only four games left in the 2025 regular season, the move sidelines one of the team’s developing young talents in the secondary.
A Season of Flashes For The New York Jets Rookie
Thomas, a third-round pick (No. 73 overall) in the 2025 NFL draft, was thrust into a significant role following the blockbuster trade that sent All-Pro cornerback Sauce Gardner to the Indianapolis Colts. The rookie stepped up to the challenge, appearing in 12 games and making five starts.
In his limited action, AZ Thomas demonstrated the potential that made him a priority for the Jets on draft day. He finishes his season with 22 total tackles, two tackles for loss, and seven pass deflections. Notably, he had recorded a pass defense in six consecutive games, which was the longest active streak among all NFL rookies and tied a team record for a rookie set by Darrelle Revis.
Impact on the Jets Secondary
The loss of Thomas is a significant blow to a secondary that was already navigating a youth movement. He was gaining valuable experience and showing week-to-week improvement. His absence now removes a key rotational player and forces the team to rely on other defensive backs to step up for the remainder of the season.
The injury also complicates the New York Jets’ long-term planning at the cornerback position. The team was counting on Thomas’s development to solidify the group. Now, his progress is paused, and the Jets will likely need to address the position’s depth in the upcoming offseason through free agency or the draft.
Roster Moves and Looking Ahead
In a corresponding move, the Jets activated linebacker Cam Jones from injured reserve to fill the open spot on the 53-man roster. The team also elevated quarterback Adrian Martinez and defensive back Tre Brown from the practice squad for their upcoming game.
For Thomas, the focus will now shift to recovery and preparing for his sophomore campaign in 2026. He will have a full offseason program, including OTAs and training camp, to reclaim a starting role and build on the flashes he showed during his rookie year.
