2026 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Jakobe Thomas, S, Miami

It is never too early to evaluate safety depth for the 2026 NFL Draft. General manager Jason Licht has consistently targeted versatile defensive backs who can impact the game in multiple phases, and Todd Bowles’ defensive structure depends on safeties who can play downhill, disguise pressure, and contribute in coverage. Tampa Bay values defensive backs who can handle hybrid roles, especially those who can function as both run defenders and pressure players in sub-packages. While the Buccaneers may not be searching for an immediate starter, adding depth with versatility and playmaking ability remains a priority.

We are working through each position group this cycle. With that in mind, here is our report on Miami safety Jakobe Thomas.

Information

• School: Miami
• Conference: ACC
• Position: Safety
• Height Weight: 6-2, 200 pounds
• Class: Fifth-Year Senior
• Hometown: Tullahoma, Tennessee

Background

Thomas enters the draft process as a well-traveled defensive back with experience across multiple programs, beginning his career at Middle Tennessee State before stops at Tennessee and Miami. His journey reflects steady development and an expanding role, particularly as a playmaker near the line of scrimmage.

Across his collegiate career, Thomas has totaled 130 tackles, seven tackles for loss, one sack, and 14 pass breakups while consistently contributing in multiple defensive roles. His most productive stretch came at Middle Tennessee, where he recorded 71 tackles in 2023 and flashed ball production earlier in his career with four interceptions in 2022.

In 2025 at Miami, Thomas stepped into a significant role, contributing across all phases of the defense. He posted strong production as both a run defender and blitzer, showcasing his ability to impact the game beyond traditional coverage responsibilities.

Notable Stats from 2025

• 774 total snaps
• 411 coverage snaps
• 87.3 overall defensive grade
• 58 tackles
• 19.4 percent missed tackle rate
• 22 defensive stops
• Five interceptions
• Six pass breakups

Thomas also generated 14 total pressures, including three sacks, highlighting his effectiveness when used as a blitzer.

Skills

• Strong size and athletic profile for the position
• Effective blitzer with pass rush production
• Versatile alignment across box and deep roles
• Physical presence in run support
• Playmaking ability with the ball in the air
• Experience across multiple defensive systems
• Ability to impact the game beyond coverage
• Aggressive downhill play style

Thomas stands out for his versatility and ability to impact the game in multiple ways. He is not just a traditional coverage safety, as his usage in pressure packages allowed him to generate consistent disruption in the backfield. His 14 pressures and three sacks in 2025 highlight a skill set that fits well in aggressive defensive schemes.

In coverage, Thomas shows flashes of playmaking ability, particularly when he can keep plays in front of him and react downhill. His five interceptions in 2025 demonstrate his ability to capitalize on opportunities, though his coverage consistency remains an area for growth.

As a run defender, Thomas plays aggressively and with physicality. He is willing to step into contact and support the defense near the line of scrimmage, though his 19.4 percent missed tackle rate shows inconsistency as a finisher.

His experience across multiple programs adds to his value, as he has shown the ability to adapt to different systems and roles while maintaining production.

Player Summary

Jakobe Thomas projects as a mid-to-late Day 3 selection with a versatile skill set that should appeal to teams looking for hybrid defensive backs. His ability to contribute as a blitzer, run defender, and situational coverage player gives him multiple paths to earning a role.

In Tampa Bay, Thomas would project as a rotational safety with immediate value on special teams and in sub-packages. His ability to generate pressure aligns well with Todd Bowles’ defensive philosophy, particularly in schemes that utilize defensive backs as part of the pass rush.

Long term, Thomas has the upside to develop into a situational contributor with a defined role. If he can improve his tackling consistency and refine his coverage technique, his versatility and playmaking ability give him a strong chance to outperform his draft position and carve out a role in an NFL defense.

This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: 2026 NFL Draft Scouting Report on Miami (FL) S Jakobe Thomas