Last November, just before the Bucs’ hopes were dashed by C.J. Stroud’s last-minute heroics in Houston, Tavierre Thomas nearly sealed their fate with a play of his own.
A Game of Inches
With less than a minute left and the Bucs pushing for a game-winning touchdown, Baker Mayfield connected with rookie Trey Palmer for a 15-yard gain deep in the red zone. But just as victory seemed within reach, Thomas knocked the ball loose from Palmer. Luckily for Tampa Bay, Mike Evans was there to recover the fumble, and on the very next play, Mayfield found Cade Otton in the end zone, giving the Bucs a brief four-point lead.
Thomas’ Impact
Though the Bucs ultimately fell to the Texans in a heartbreaking 39-37 loss, Thomas left a lasting impression. So much so that Tampa Bay brought him on board in March. Now, five months later, Thomas is proving to be an invaluable addition to the secondary, showcasing his knack for creating turnovers and his versatility on the field.
Emerging Star
During the first nine days of training camp, Thomas has been a standout, snagging three interceptions from three different quarterbacks in various drills. One of those picks, off Baker Mayfield, had all the makings of a pick-six in a real game scenario.
Versatile Playmaker
Now on his fourth NFL team in seven seasons, the 28-year-old Thomas has established himself as a reliable cornerback and special teams contributor. With the Bucs, he’s also being tested at both safety positions, highlighting his adaptability and football IQ.
Small-School Success Story
Thomas’s journey from Ferris State to the NFL is a testament to his resilience and determination. At Ferris State, he quickly earned a starting spot and racked up 14 interceptions over his college career, including six in his junior year, which earned him first-team Division II All-America honors.
Conclusion
Tavierre Thomas’s rise from small-school standout to NFL playmaker underscores his relentless drive and talent. His impact during training camp has been significant, and his versatility makes him a key piece in the Bucs’ defensive puzzle this season.
FAQs
Q: How has Tavierre Thomas performed in training camp so far?
A: Thomas has been a standout, recording three interceptions in the first nine days of camp, showcasing his ball-hawking skills.
Q: What positions is Thomas being considered for with the Bucs?
A: In addition to his established role at cornerback, Thomas is also being evaluated for both safety positions, highlighting his versatility on defense.
